Umpiring Major League Baseball games is a dream job for many aspiring sports officials. It’s an opportunity to be part of the action and see the best of the best compete in America’s pastime. But for those who make it, how much does a MLB umpire make?
The answer to that question depends on the level of experience. Umpires who work in the Major Leagues can make anywhere from $120,000 to over $400,000 annually. It’s a lucrative job that comes with a lot of responsibility and pressure. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at MLB umpire salaries.
MLB Umpire Salaries
The salaries of MLB umpires are determined by the Major League Baseball Umpires Association (MLBUA). The MLBUA negotiates with the MLB to set the pay scale for umpires. According to the MLBUA, the current salary range for MLB umpires is between $120,000 and $420,000 per year.
This salary range is based on the amount of experience an umpire has. Generally, the more years of experience an umpire has, the more money they make. Umpires with one year of experience are at the lower end of the pay scale, while those with five or more years of experience are at the higher end.
Additional Earnings
In addition to their base salary, MLB umpires also receive other benefits and additional income. One of the most notable additional income sources for MLB umpires is bonuses for postseason assignments. Umpires can receive a bonus of up to $20,000 for working during the playoffs and World Series.
Umpires also receive a per diem for each day they are on the job. This amount varies based on the city but is typically around $100 per day. Umpires also receive travel and hotel expenses while they are on the job.
Finally, umpires can receive up to $10,000 per year in performance bonuses. This bonus is based on their overall performance during the season. Umpires who have a higher rate of accuracy in their calls and demonstrate a high level of professionalism are more likely to receive this bonus.
Career Path
Becoming an MLB umpire is a long and arduous process. Umpires typically start their career in the minor leagues and work their way up to the majors. Umpires in the minors usually make around $2,000 to $3,000 per month.
Once umpires make it to the majors, they have to compete for a spot on the full-time roster. This is done by attending the MLB Umpire Training Academy and then taking part in a series of evaluations. Umpires who make it through the evaluation process are then placed on the roster and start receiving their salary.
Conclusion
Umpiring Major League Baseball games is a rewarding and lucrative job. Umpires can make anywhere from $120,000 to over $400,000 per year, depending on their experience. In addition to their salary, umpires also receive bonuses for postseason assignments and performance bonuses. Becoming an MLB umpire is a long and difficult process, but for those who make it, the rewards are well worth it.