Major League Baseball (MLB) is one of the most popular professional sports in the United States and across the world. As a result, the league is able to pay its players top dollar for their services. But how much does an MLB player make a year?
The Average Salary
The average annual salary for an MLB player is $4.36 million. This figure has increased significantly over the last decade, as the sport continues to grow in popularity and teams are willing to pay more to attract star players. The median salary for an MLB player is even higher, at $4.5 million.
Big-Name Players
While the average salary is impressive, some of the biggest names in the sport are able to command much higher salaries. The highest-paid MLB player in 2019 was pitcher Gerrit Cole, who signed a record nine-year, $324 million contract with the New York Yankees. Other notable players who earned more than $30 million in 2019 include Mike Trout, Zack Greinke, Stephen Strasburg, and Nolan Arenado.
Minimum Salary
While some players are making eye-popping salaries, the league has a minimum salary for its players. The minimum salary for an MLB player in 2019 was $555,000. This figure is up from $535,000 in 2018 and $507,500 in 2017.
Compensation Incentives
In addition to base salary, MLB players are eligible for a variety of compensation incentives. Bonuses can be earned for making the All-Star team, winning awards, and appearing in the postseason. Players can also earn additional money through endorsements and promotional activities.
Conclusion
Major League Baseball players are some of the highest-paid athletes in the world. The average salary for an MLB player is $4.36 million, while the median salary is $4.5 million. However, some of the biggest names in the sport are able to command much higher salaries. The league also has a minimum salary for its players, which was $555,000 in 2019. In addition to base salary, MLB players are eligible for a variety of compensation incentives.