"The organization has decided on a much lower payroll," Alderson said.

"We're not using it as an excuse," Schuerholz said of the lower payroll.

They already had one of the lowest payrolls in the majors.

Pittsburgh had the lowest payroll for tax purposes, $16,594,533, the only one under $20 million.

Beane has made a reputation by winning with a low payroll.

Perhaps part of their remarkable nature is that in the three series that were decided before last night, the team with the lower payroll won.

The Expos will not have the lowest payroll in the majors next season.

No owner can be allowed to have a low payroll and pocket the rest of the money.

The Expos at the time had the major leagues' lowest payroll.

The Islanders began the season with the league's lowest payroll.