M.L.B.’s New “Competitive Balance Lottery:” Does It Really Matter?

Before you read this piece, go and read through Justin’s article concerning the “Competitive Balance Lottery” (M.L.B. article) that M.L.B. will be instituting starting with the 2013 Draft.  Essentially, the teams that are in smaller markets/have the smallest payrolls will be entered in a lottery to receive extra picks at the end of the 1st and 2nd Rounds of the M.L.B. Draft.  There will be 6 picks at the end of the 1st Round (after the F.A. compensatory picks) and 6 at the end of the 2nd.

This move for a “Competitive Balance Lottery” appears to be a great idea in theory, and has many lauding those that instituted it as “helping” franchises like the Padres.  However, I feel this particular institution will accomplish little if anything once put into action.  Read on if you’d like to hear my case: