2052.5: Bears in Mind - A Financial Outlook

[BaseClogger]

The 2052 San Fernando Bears remained competitive throughout the season despite having the 2nd smallest payroll in the Brewster. The team's entire budget was only 24th in the league despite having perhaps the largest market from which to draw support.

For the second straight season, the Bears were forced to largely sit out on watershed free agent classes, instead opting to offer mid-level contracts on a one-year basis. That means the budget will be replenished heading into 2053, in addition to the 15K per game attendance spike from a reinvigorated fanbase.

Arbitration raises will be minimal. The Bears roster is still primarily made up of players extended long-term by their previous GM and those one-year free agent signings. Early indications hint at approximately $10M being added to the organization's budget, with additional support coming from changes in the league structure.

The Bears will be at a crossroads, with key players like Roberto Rivera, Reggie Vargas, and Tyler Ober all set to hit free agency in 2054. Although improved, with a still relatively modest farm system--position players in particular is a thin group--San Fernando may have to consider cashing them in to invest in the future.