Major League Baseball (MLB) is one of the most popular and successful sports leagues in the world. As such, the job of a manager of an MLB team is highly coveted and highly rewarding. But just like in any profession, there are varying levels of pay. Some managers make millions of dollars a year, while others make much less. So who is the lowest paid MLB manager?
Overview of the MLB Salary Structure
Before we can answer the question of who is the lowest paid MLB manager, it’s important to understand the overall salary structure of the MLB. A manager’s salary can be made up of a base salary, bonuses, performance incentives, and other types of compensation.
Base Salary
The base salary for a MLB manager can vary greatly depending on the team and the individual. Most MLB managers make between $700,000 and $2 million a year in base salary.
Bonuses
Many MLB managers also receive bonuses for reaching certain performance goals. These can include bonuses for winning a division title, reaching the playoffs, or winning a championship.
Performance Incentives
Performance incentives are also common for MLB managers. These incentives can include bonuses for reaching certain goals, such as winning a certain number of games in a season, or for having the team achieve certain statistical milestones.
Other Types of Compensation
In addition to the base salary, bonuses, and performance incentives, MLB managers may also receive other types of compensation, such as endorsement deals, speaking engagements, and other non-baseball related income.
Who is the Lowest Paid MLB Manager?
Now that we have a better understanding of the salary structure of the MLB, let’s answer the question of who is the lowest paid MLB manager. Currently, the lowest paid MLB manager is Tampa Bay Rays manager Kevin Cash. Cash makes an annual base salary of $1 million.
Cash’s Career
Kevin Cash was hired as the manager of the Tampa Bay Rays in 2015. He had previously served as the bullpen coach for the Rays from 2012-2014. Cash was also a player in the MLB from 2002-2011. He played for the Toronto Blue Jays, Tampa Bay Rays, Cleveland Indians, and Boston Red Sox.
Cash’s Salary
As previously mentioned, Cash’s base salary is $1 million a year. He also receives bonuses for reaching certain performance goals. According to reports, Cash has earned a total of $2.2 million in bonuses over the past five years.
Comparison to Other Managers
When compared to other MLB managers, Cash’s salary is on the low end. For example, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts earns an annual salary of $4 million. Chicago Cubs manager Joe Maddon earns an annual salary of $6 million.
Reasons for Low Salary
There are several reasons why Cash’s salary is lower than other managers. One reason is that the Tampa Bay Rays are one of the smallest markets in the MLB. This means that the team does not have the same financial resources as teams in larger markets. Another reason is that Cash is relatively new to the job. He was hired in 2015, and his salary has increased gradually over the past five years.
Conclusion
So who is the lowest paid MLB manager? The answer is Tampa Bay Rays manager Kevin Cash, who earns an annual base salary of $1 million. When compared to other managers, Cash’s salary is on the low end, but this is due in part to the small market nature of the Tampa Bay Rays.