The Dodgers used $277 million and a series of smart trades to build one of the best teams ever

Austin Barnes, catcher

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When acquired: Prior to the 2015 season

How acquired: The Miami Marlins traded Barnes to the Dodgers along with Chris Hatcher, Andrew Heaney, and Kike Hernandez, in exchange for Dee Gordon, Dan Haren, Miguel Rojas, and cash.

2017 salary: $540,000

Contract: 1 year, $540,000. Barnes will likely receive his first big raise in 2020 when he will be eligible for arbitration for the first time. He is not eligible for free agency until 2023.

One thing to know: Barnes spent most of his youth as an infielder, but the Arizona State product stepped behind the plate when two of his college teammates became injured and quickly excelled in the role. Similarly, the 27 year old was never supposed to be the Dodgers’ everyday catcher this year, but his talent spoke for itself, allowing him to slowly replace former All-Star Yasmani Grandal in the lineup.