The high-stakes world of Major League Baseball features power hitters and glamorous fielders, but pitchers command the mound. These golden arms may change the game with a single pitch. Let’s look at the ten highest-paid pitchers in Major League Baseball, with arms worth their weight in gold.
Shohei Ohtani
At the pinnacle of MLB salaries is Shohei Ohtani, the Japanese sensation whose $700 million deal with the LA Dodgers sets a record as the highest in sports history. Despite recovering from Tommy John surgery, Ohtani’s $65 million earnings in 2023, including $40 million in endorsements, solidify his status as a top-earning player.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto
Before even stepping on the mound, Yamamoto secured one of the highest pitching contracts in MLB history. The Dodgers signed him for a 12-year, $325 million deal with a $50.6 million posting fee. At 25, he already has a $40 million net worth, which lucrative endorsements boost even further.
Justin Verlander
At 41, Justin Verlander remains a top earner in MLB, with a $43.3 million salary split between the Houston Astros and his previous stint with the Mets. Endorsement deals with Under Armour, and Rawlings increases his wealth. Returning to the Astros, Verlander’s outstanding earnings raise his net worth to $150 million.
Max Scherzer
Scherzer stands out for his $43.3 million compensation divided between the Rangers and prior teams. His significant 2023 earnings total $58.8 million, but modest endorsements with Nike and Rawlings provide only $2 million. With a net worth of $120 million, Scherzer remains an enormous MLB power.
Aaron Judge
He has also emerged as an off-the-field superstar. In 2023, the Yankees captain made $44 million in sponsorships with Nike, Oakley, and Hulu. In the second year of a nine-year, $360 million contract, Judge is expanding his influence with high-profile collaborations such as Ralph Lauren’s Polo 67 cologne.
Mike Trout
Mike Trout, who has been with the Los Angeles Angels since 2011, has approximately $250 million remaining on his $426 million contract. Despite injuries, he made $40.5 million in 2023 from pay and partnerships with Nike, Land Rover, and Subway. His net worth in 2024 is expected to be $140 million.
Jacob deGrom
After signing a five-year, $185 million deal with the Texas Rangers, Jacob deGrom’s 2023 season was hampered by injuries. Despite this, he remains a superb pitcher, with a career WHIP second only to Addie Joss. DeGrom is set to return in August 2024, earning $40 million annually.
Gerrit Cole
The ace of the New York Yankees inked a nine-year, $324 million contract in 2020. Despite Rawlings’ tiny $1.5 million endorsement, Cole’s achievement warrants his compensation of $37.5 million in 2023. His net worth is around $50 million, and his impact on the Yankees’ success justifies his hefty paycheck.
Corey Seager
Corey Seager led his squad to their first World Series championship in 2023, receiving MVP honors. He also used his on-field performance to secure lucrative collaborations with T-Mobile, Raising Cane’s, and New Era, in addition to his prior agreements with Adidas and Fanatics. The Texas Rangers shortstop received $44 million in 2023 as part of a 10-year, $325 million contract.