by Sports Xchange

With so many key players eligible for salary arbitration, payroll will increase over the team's 2009 total of $100 million if everybody is retained. The list of arbitration-eligible players includes Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, George Sherrill, James Loney, Russell Martin, Jonathan Broxton and Hong-Chih Kuo.

It is widely believed, though, that the Dodgers could end up decreasing salary. The Dodgers deny that possible salary reductions would be due to the pending divorce between team owners Frank and Jamie McCourt.

The Los Angeles Times reported Nov. 19 that the Dodgers aren't interested in free agent pitcher John Lackey. Dodgers president Dennis Mannion was quoted as saying the sluggish economy would prevent the pursuit of the longtime Angels right-hander.

Toronto Blue Jays ace Roy Halladay figures to be dealt at some point between now and next summer's trade deadline. But even if the Dodgers can put together a desirable trade package, taking on any of Halladay's $15.75 million salary for 2010 figures to add to the bottom line.

The team's ace in waiting, left-hander Clayton Kershaw, turns 22 during spring training. Whether he is ready or not, he looks destined to sit atop the rotation next season with the Dodgers possibly adding somebody that can fit in as a No. 3 guy.