10 Highest-Paid Players in MLB History
Major League Baseball is a sport of exceptional talent and financial investments. Over the years, the league has witnessed record-breaking contracts that showcase the value of its superstars. From jaw-dropping extensions to groundbreaking free-agent signings, these deals highlight the elite status of MLB’s greatest players. Here are the highest-paid players in MLB history.
Juan Soto – $765 Million (15 Years)
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In December 2024, Juan Soto signed an unprecedented 15-year, $765 million contract with the New York Mets. This deal not only shattered MLB records but also set a benchmark for professional sports contracts worldwide. With escalators built into the agreement, Soto’s total earnings could exceed $800 million, highlighting his immense value.
Shohei Ohtani – $700 Million (10 Years)
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Shohei Ohtani inked a historic 10-year, $700 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers in December 2023. The two-way sensation captivated fans with his elite pitching and batting, making him the highest-paid MLB player at the time. His deal cemented his reputation as one of the sport’s most exceptional talents.
Mike Trout – $426.5 Million (12 Years)
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Mike Trout signed a 12-year, $426.5 million extension with the Los Angeles Angels in March 2019. Known for his consistent performance and multiple MVP awards, Trout’s deal reflected his status as baseball’s premier player. The contract was the richest in North American sports history when announced, underlining his immense contribution.
Mookie Betts – $365 Million (12 Years)
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In July 2020, Mookie Betts secured a 12-year, $365 million extension with the Los Angeles Dodgers. A key piece of their 2020 World Series championship, Betts’ exceptional fielding, batting, and leadership made him indispensable. This long-term commitment rewarded his contributions while ensuring his future as a Dodgers cornerstone.
Aaron Judge – $360 Million (9 Years)
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After a record-breaking 62-home run season, Aaron Judge re-signed with the New York Yankees for 9 years and $360 million in December 2022. The deal underscored his critical role in the team’s success and recognized his status as one of MLB’s most marketable and productive stars.
Francisco Lindor – $341 Million (10 Years)
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Francisco Lindor joined the New York Mets with a 10-year, $341 million extension in March 2021 after being traded from Cleveland. His dynamic defense and reliable hitting made him a franchise cornerstone. The contract demonstrated the Mets’ commitment to building around elite players and highlighted Lindor’s importance to their future.
Fernando Tatis Jr. – $340 Million (14 Years)
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Fernando Tatis Jr. signed a 14-year, $340 million deal with the San Diego Padres in February 2021. The agreement showcased the team’s faith in the young phenom’s ability to lead them for years. Tatis’ electrifying style and on-field charisma made him one of baseball’s most exciting talents.
Bryce Harper – $330 Million (13 Years)
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Bryce Harper joined the Philadelphia Phillies in March 2019, signing a 13-year, $330 million deal. This record-breaking contract at the time secured Harper’s services for the long haul. His consistent hitting and leadership positioned him as the face of the Phillies’ quest for championship glory.
Giancarlo Stanton – $325 Million (13 Years)
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Giancarlo Stanton signed a 13-year, $325 million extension with the Miami Marlins in November 2014, setting a sports record. Stanton’s power-hitting and ability to deliver in clutch situations earned him the massive deal. Though later traded, his contract remains one of the most lucrative in MLB history.
Corey Seager – $325 Million (10 Years)
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Corey Seager agreed to a 10-year, $325 million contract with the Texas Rangers in December 2021. As one of baseball’s best shortstops, Seager’s combination of power-hitting and defensive reliability justified the hefty deal. His signing signaled the Rangers’ ambition to compete for titles in the coming years.
Gerrit Cole – $324 Million (9 Years)
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Gerrit Cole signed a 9-year, $324 million deal with the New York Yankees in December 2019, breaking records for pitchers. The agreement highlighted Cole’s dominance on the mound and his value as an ace. His contract solidified the Yankees’ rotation and underscored their commitment to winning championships.
Manny Machado – $350 Million (11 Years)
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Manny Machado signed an 11-year, $350 million extension with the San Diego Padres in February 2023. His leadership, consistent offensive production, and defensive prowess at third base made him indispensable. The Padres rewarded him for his pivotal role in their resurgence as a playoff contender.
Nolan Arenado – $260 Million (8 Years)
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Nolan Arenado secured an 8-year, $260 million extension with the Colorado Rockies in February 2019. Renowned for his Gold Glove defense and power hitting, Arenado’s deal recognized his exceptional skills. Though later traded, his contract reflected the Rockies’ efforts to build a competitive team around him.
Alex Rodriguez – $275 Million (10 Years)
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In December 2007, Alex Rodriguez signed a 10-year, $275 million deal with the New York Yankees. The deal reaffirmed his superstar status and set a new benchmark for MLB contracts at the time. Rodriguez’s prolific home runs and consistent offensive output justified the record-breaking agreement.
Alex Rodriguez – $252 Million (10 Years)
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Alex Rodriguez initially broke records in December 2000 with his 10-year, $252 million contract with the Texas Rangers. The deal established a new standard for player salaries, reflecting Rodriguez’s exceptional talent. His ability to consistently produce offensively and defensively positioned him as one of the game’s greats.
