The Dodgers have been criticized for their $1.1 billion deferred payroll strategy, which allows them to pay their top players without facing a luxury-tax hit and generate immediate cash flow for the team. This comes after Tarik Skubal was traded to the Tigers for a modest package of prospects, but Skubale is now a free agent after this season, making him a rental. The Dodgers hope to sign Skuban this winter, largely due to the deferred money they would likely offer in a potential deal. If they sign him, a significant chunk of deferred money is likely to include a significant portion of this contract. This could push LA past the current $1 billion sum it owes its current crop of players. The current Collective Bargaining Agreement allows the Dodgers to play by playing by the rules.