A ranking of Major League Baseball's highest-compensated athletes based on the average annual value (AAV) of their current contracts. This list highlights the players commanding the most significant financial resources in professional sports, reflecting their elite performance, marketability, and positional value in the modern game.
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The Los Angeles Dodgers signed Ohtani to a record-breaking $700 million contract, setting a new standard for total value in sports history. His unique ability to excel as both a premier pitcher and elite hitter justifies his status as the highest-paid athlete in MLB history by AAV.
The New York Yankees' captain secured a 9-year, $360 million deal that keeps him among the league's financial elite. Known for his historic power-hitting and leadership, Judge's contract reflects the premium placed on franchise-cornerstone talent in the modern free-agent market.
Following his blockbuster trade to the New York Yankees, Soto signed a 12-year extension worth $765 million. His exceptional plate discipline and on-base percentage make him one of the most valuable offensive players, commanding top-tier compensation among his peers.
The Los Angeles Dodgers' All-Star outfielder holds a massive 12-year, $365 million contract that extends through the 2032 season. Betts combines elite hitting with Gold Glove-caliber defense, making his high AAV a reflection of his two-way superstar status.
The Los Angeles Dodgers' first baseman signed a seven-year, $162 million extension that maintains his position in the upper echelon of earners. Known for his consistent batting average and clutch hitting, Freeman represents the high value placed on veteran stability and offensive production.
The New York Yankees' ace pitcher carries an average annual value of approximately $36 million from his eight-year contract. As one of the most dominant strikeout pitchers of his generation, Cole's compensation underscores the premium teams place on elite starting pitching.
Traded from the Mets to the Texas Rangers, Scherzer's contract continues to carry a massive AAV that remains among the highest for pitchers. His history of Cy Young awards and postseason dominance justifies the significant financial commitment from his current and former teams.
The Houston Astros' veteran ace holds one of the largest contracts in baseball history, with an AAV exceeding $30 million. Despite recent injury challenges, Verlander's track record of excellence and leadership continues to command top-tier salary in the major leagues.
The Atlanta Braves' superstar outfielder signed a seven-year, $100 million extension that secures his future with the franchise. Acuña's rare combination of speed, power, and defense makes him one of the most dynamic players in the sport, warranting his high compensation.
The San Diego Padres' shortstop signed a massive extension worth $340 million over ten years, securing his status as a franchise cornerstone. His explosive offensive potential and defensive skills at shortstop make him one of the highest-paid players in the league by average annual value.
The Toronto Blue Jays' shortstop secured a five-year, $107 million extension that keeps his AAV among the highest for his position. Known for his smooth swing and range in the infield, Bichette represents the significant value placed on young, elite shortstop talent.
The Arizona Diamondbacks' outfielder signed a substantial extension that positions him among the highest-paid players under the age of 25. His elite speed, plate discipline, and defensive versatility have made him one of the most valuable young stars in MLB.
The Baltimore Orioles' shortstop signed a long-term extension that reflects his emergence as an MVP candidate. Henderson's blend of power, defense, and speed makes him one of the most promising young players, commanding a high average annual value as part of his rookie-scale super-extension.
The Pittsburgh Pirates' top prospect has signed a massive rookie contract that includes a club option worth significantly more than typical first-round picks. While his AAV is projected to soar as he debuts, his current deal represents the highest investment in a pitcher of his caliber in recent draft history.
Acquired by the Los Angeles Dodgers, Hernandez carries a significant AAV from his previous contract with the Seattle Mariners. His consistent power hitting and ability to drive in runs make him a valuable offensive contributor, warranting his high compensation among middle-tier outfielders.
The New York Yankees' first baseman holds a contract that, while nearing its end, still reflects a high historical AAV during his tenure with the Marlins and Cubs. His defensive prowess and experience have made him a well-compensated veteran presence in major league first base.
Despite free agency fluctuations, Báez's previous contracts with the Cubs and Tigers carried substantial AAVs due to his elite defensive skills and power potential. His unique athletic ability has consistently commanded high salaries among MLB shortstops over the past several seasons.
The New York Yankees' shortstop has signed an extension that reflects his rapid rise to the major leagues and strong defensive metrics. As a young cornerstone for the Yankees, Volpe's AAV is projected to increase significantly as he enters arbitration and free agency eligibility.
The Milwaukee Brewers' rookie outfielder has signed a highly lucrative extension that guarantees him a high AAV despite his minor league status. His advanced hitting approach and defensive potential have made him one of the most valuable young prospects in baseball, justifying the financial commitment.
The Kansas City Royals' shortstop signed an extension that positions him among the highest-paid players at his position. His combination of power, speed, and Gold Glove defense makes him a franchise cornerstone, warranting a salary that reflects his MVP-caliber performance.