MLB’s highest paid players: Who are they and how much do they earn?

In total, 130 players decided to become free agents, according to the MLB Players Association. With that in mind, we’re taking a look at the biggest contracts out there and how they rank among those most lucrative in MLB history.

Shohei Ohtani 700 million for 10 years

The Japanese sensation made MLB history by signing a 10-year contract to the tune of $700 million. Yet, it’s got to be said that Ohtani is a special kind of guy. With a base salary of $70 million per season, he took the decision to defer his salary so the Dodgers could have more wiggle room where building a better roster is concerned. After all the point of leaving the Angels was to join a contender. To that end, the two-way star will earn $2 million per season with the rest being paid at a later date.

Mike Trout 426.5 million for 12 years

Prior to the above-mentioned Shohei Ohtani, it was Trout who previously had the biggest contract in MLB history, one which he signed on March 19, 2019, and was worth $426.5 million for a period of 12 years. At this time, he’s on an average salary of $24.45 million with seven seasons left on the deal.

Mookie Betts 365 million for 12 years

Betts arrived in Los Angeles before the start of the 2020 season in a trade with the Boston Red Sox and a few months later he secured the contract of his life. A 12-year deal worth $365 million that will likely see Betts finishing his career with the Dodgers. As for 2024, Betts has a set base salary of $25 million plus a signing bonus for another five million.

Aaron Judge 360 million for nine years

After setting the record for home runs in a single season in the American League, the New York Yankees rewarded Judge with a nine-year, $360 million contract. ‘The Judge’ is the outfielder who earns the highest annual salary at $40 million per season.

Manny Machado 350 million for 11 years

Machado is the San Diego Padres’ highest-paid player after signing for 11 years in exchange for $350 million. The Dominican star will remain in San Diego for the duration of his contract since he agreed to a no-trade clause. Surprisingly, Machado’s base salary will increase from 2026 and 2027. In 2025 he will earn $13 million, the next $21 million, and from 2027 onwards he will receive $35 million per season.

Top 15 Highest-Paid MLB Players in 2024