Major League Baseball (MLB) umpires are some of the most recognizable and respected figures on the field. They have the responsibility of enforcing the rules of the game and making sure that the competition is fair and equitable. While umpiring may not be the most glamorous job in sports, it is one of the most important, and it comes with a very competitive salary. So, who is the highest-paid MLB umpire?
The Highest-Paid Umpire in MLB
The highest-paid MLB umpire is Joe West, who currently serves as the crew chief for the National League. West has been an MLB umpire since 1976 and has been the highest-paid umpire in the league since 2005. In 2019, West signed a five-year contract extension with MLB that will pay him an estimated $550,000 per year. This makes West the highest-paid umpire in the league, and one of the highest-paid officials in all of professional sports.
What Does an MLB Umpire Make?
The average annual salary for an MLB umpire is $350,000, which is significantly higher than the average annual salary for other professional sports officials. The salaries of MLB umpires are determined by a collective bargaining agreement between the league and the World Umpires Association (WUA). The agreement establishes a salary scale based on an umpire’s years of service, with the most experienced umpires making the most money.
How Are Umpires Paid?
MLB umpires are paid on a per-game basis. They are paid for each game they umpire, regardless of the outcome. Umpires are also paid for the travel time and expenses associated with their job. In addition to their game pay, umpires also receive a yearly bonus based on their performance.
Perks For Umpires
In addition to their salaries and bonuses, MLB umpires also receive a variety of perks. Umpires are provided with first-class accommodations when they travel, and they are given free tickets to any MLB game they choose to attend. Umpires also receive a pension after 20 years of service, which is paid for by the league.
Conclusion
Joe West is the highest-paid MLB umpire, earning an estimated $550,000 per year. The average annual salary for an MLB umpire is $350,000, and they are also paid for their travel time and expenses. Umpires also receive a variety of perks, such as first-class accommodations and free tickets to MLB games. Umpires are essential to the success of the game, and they are compensated accordingly.