Major League Baseball continues to captivate fans with its thrilling games, legendary players, and, of course, staggering salaries. As we look at the 2024 season, the financial landscape of the sport reveals the extraordinary earning potential for top-tier talent. The highest-paid players in the MLB not only showcase exceptional skills and athleticism but also command salaries that reflect their immense value to their teams and to the sport.
Join us as we take a look at the top 10 highest-paid players in the MLB for 2024, plus insight into the standout careers and contributions of these baseball superstars.
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1. Shohei Ohtani
Team: Los Angeles DodgersSalary: $70 million
Shohei Ohtani’s unprecedented two-way talent has secured him the highest salary in MLB for 2024. As both a dominant pitcher and a formidable hitter, Ohtani’s value to the Dodgers is undeniable. His ability to impact the game on both sides of the ball also makes him a unique asset in baseball history. Ohtani’s substantial contract reflects not only his performance but also his growing popularity both on and off the field.
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2. Max Scherzer
Team: Texas RangersSalary: $43.3 million
Veteran pitcher Max Scherzer remains one of the most formidable arms in the sport, according to ESPN. His competitive nature and consistent performance have earned him a top salary with the Texas Rangers. Scherzer’s leadership and experience are also seen as invaluable to the team’s pitching staff. His ability to deliver in high-pressure, clutch situations continues to justify his impressive earnings.
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3. Justin Verlander
Team: Houston AstrosSalary: $43.3 million
Justin Verlander, now with the Houston Astros, ties with Scherzer for the second spot on our list of top earners. Verlander’s remarkable career, highlighted by multiple Cy Young Awards and a World Series MVP, underscores his value. Despite his age (41), Verlander continues to perform at an elite level to showcase his resilience and skill. His salary reflects the Astros’ confidence in his ability to lead their rotation.
4. Zack Wheeler
Team: Philadelphia PhilliesSalary: $42 million
Wheeler’s impressive performance with the Philadelphia Phillies has earned him a top-five salary. Known for his strong pitching and ability to perform in clutch games, Wheeler is a key figure in the Phillies’ rotation. His ability to consistently deliver quality starts, fast balls, and his impact on the team’s success are reflected in his earnings. Wheeler’s contract highlights his importance to the Phillies’ aspirations.
5. Aaron Judge
Team: New York YankeesSalary: $40 million
The towering outfielder for the New York Yankees is known for his exceptional skill, power, and leadership. Judge’s ability to consistently hit home runs and his defensive prowess make him a cornerstone of the Yankees’ lineup. His marketability and role as a team leader further justify his earnings. Judge’s 2024 salary underscores his value to the Yankees’ legacy as the team aims to capture yet another World Series title.
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6. Jacob deGrom
Team: Texas RangersSalary: $37 million
Jacob deGrom’s move to the Texas Rangers from the New York Mets comes with a substantial salary, and reflects his status as one of the most dominant pitchers in MLB. Known for his incredible velocity and control (his pitches reach nearly 100 mph), deGrom is a game-changer when healthy. His impact, competitive spirit, and dedication to excellence are mirrored in his sizable earnings.
7. Gerrit Cole
Team: New York YankeesSalary: $36 million
Pitcher Gerrit Cole remains a key player for the New York Yankees by commanding one of the highest salaries in the league. Cole’s ability to consistently deliver strikeouts and lead his team’s pitching rotation has made him indispensable. His influence also extends beyond the mound, serving as a mentor to younger pitchers on the team. Cole’s 2024 salary highlights his importance to the Yankees’ success.
8. Mike Trout
Team: Los Angeles AngelsSalary: $35.5 million
The Los Angeles Angels’ star outfielder continues to be a dominant force in MLB. Known for his remarkable consistency and five-tool abilities, Trout’s contract reflects his status as one of the game’s best players. His combination of power, speed, and defensive prowess makes him a cornerstone of the Angels’ lineup. Off the field, Trout’s marketability and leadership further justify his top-tier salary.
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9. Stephen Strasburg
Team: Washington NationalsSalary: $35 million
After facing an injury-plagued season, Stephen Strasburg announced his retirement from the MLB but will continue to be paid through the season via his affiliation with the Washington Nationals. His 2019 World Series MVP performance cemented his reputation as a clutch performer. Strasburg’s 2024 salary is a testament to his talent and the Nationals’ respect for his past performances.
10. Anthony Rendon
Team: Los Angeles AngelsSalary: $35 million
Tying with Strasburg and rounding out the top 10 is Anthony Rendon, a standout third baseman for the Los Angeles Angels. Known for his offensive prowess and consistent performance on the defensive end, Rendon is a crucial player for the Angels. His ability to hit for power and average, along with his steady presence in the lineup, makes him a valuable asset to the Angels’ success. However, Rendon’s recent hamstring injury complicates these efforts.
Other Top-Earning Players
Other top-earning players rounding out the list include:
- 11. Francisco Lindor, New York Mets: $34.1 million
- 12. Carlos Correa, Minnesota Twins: $33.3 million
- Tied for 13. Corey Seager, Texas Rangers: $32.5 million
- Tied for 13. Nolan Arenado, St. Louis Cardinals: $32.5 million
- 15. Manny Machado, San Diego Padres: $31.8 million
- 16. Rafael Devers, Boston Red Sox: $31.3 million
- 17. Juan Soto, New York Yankees: $31 million
- 18. Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Dodgers: $30.4 million
- 19. Tyler Glasnow, Los Angeles Dodgers: $27.3 million
- 20. Trea Turner, Philadelphia Phillies: $27.27 million
