The 25 Highest-Paid MLB Players in 2018
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Don’t let the debate about Major League Baseball’s supposed "marketing problem" fool you. The league is flush with cash.
In fact, MLB ranks second among global sports leagues for the average player salary ($4.5 million), a figure that has grown steadily every year since 2004, when it was $2.31 million. Team payrolls continue to rise, as well. In 2018, overall franchise payrolls range from the Tampa Bay Rays ($71,111,224) and Chicago White Sox ($71,168,615) to the San Francisco Giants ($207,025,940) and Boston Red Sox ($227,638,244).
When looking at the highest-paid baseball players in terms of yearly salary, most people wouldn’t be shocked to find out that stars such as Clayton Kershaw and Mike Trout are at the top of the list. We have to warn you, though, some of the richest players in the game might cause fans to cringe given the disparity between their colossal paychecks and poor statistical output.
So which players earn the most this year, good or bad? Find out here.
#25: Ian Desmond
Colorado Rockies first baseman Ian Desmond celebrates as he heads down the third-base line to home plate after hitting a two-run, walk-off home run off San Diego Padres relief pitcher Kirby Yates in the ninth inning of a 2018 game in Denver.Team: Colorado Rockies
Position: 1B
Age: 32
Experience: 10 years
Rookie season: 2009
Financials:
2018 total salary: $22,000,000
Base salary: $22,000,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 5 years, $70,000,000
Free Agent: 2023
Career Statistics
AVG: .264
HR: 159
RBI: 635
R: 649
SB: 175
2018 Statistics
AVG: .236
HR: 22
RBI: 88
R: 82
SB: 20
2017 Statistics
AVG: .274
HR: 7
RBI: 40
R: 47
SB: 13
Bottom line: The Rockies signed Desmond with hopes he’d join Charlie Blackmon, Nolan Arenado and Trevor Story as a legitimate power source.
The 32-year-old has been disappointing, though, as he followed up a five-year run of at least 19 homers per season with just seven in an injury-riddled 2017.
His power numbers have been better this year, but his batting average has decreased. This might be a contract Colorado regrets.
#24: Masahiro Tanaka
New York Yankees starting pitcher Masahiro Tanaka delivers the ball to the Chicago White Sox during the first inning of a baseball game Monday, Aug. 27, 2018, at Yankee Stadium in New York. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)Team: New York Yankees
Position: SP
Age: 29
Experience: 5 years
Rookie season: 2014
Financials:
2018 total salary: $22,000,000
Base salary: $22,000,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 7 years, $155,000,000
Free Agent: 2021
Career Statistics
W-L: 62-33
ERA: 3.60
IP: 802.1
K: 773
2018 Statistics
W-L: 12-6
ERA: 3.75
IP: 156
K: 159
2017 Statistics
W-L: 13-12
ERA: 4.74
IP: 178.1
K: 194
Bottom line: Tanaka has proven to be a stalwart in the Yankees’ rotation over the last five seasons.
Though the first half was near disastrous in 2017 — having posted a 5.47 ERA in 18 starts — he rebounded well and helped the team reach Game 7 of the ALCS before falling to the eventual champion Houston Astros.
After opting back into his current deal, the right-hander will continue to serve as the No. 2 starter for the Bronx Bombers until his contract is up in 2021.
#23: Max Scherzer
Washington Nationals starting pitcher Max Scherzer throws during the second inning of a baseball game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2018, in Philadelphia. (AP Photo/Chris Szagola)Team: Washington Nationals
Position: SP
Age: 33
Experience: 11 years
Rookie season: 2008
Financials:
2018 total salary: $22,142,857
Base salary: $15,000,000
Signing bonus: $7,142,857
Contract: 7 years, $210,000,000
Free Agent: 2022
Career Statistics
W-L: 157-81
ERA: 3.20
IP: 2,090
K: 2,409
2018 Statistics
W-L: 16-6
ERA: 2.28
IP: 220.2
K: 300
2017 Statistics
W-L: 16-6
ERA: 2.51
IP: 200.2
K: 268
Bottom line: "Mad Max" exudes dominance on the mound. Scherzer, a three-time Cy Young winner who also has finished in the top five in voting for five straight years, seems to be getting stronger, too.
It’s not a stretch to say he’s authoring his best season as an ace.
#22: Buster Posey
San Francisco Giants catcher Buster Posey bobbles a fly ball in the ninth inning of a baseball game against the Texas Rangers in San Francisco, Friday, Aug 24, 2018. (AP Photo/John Hefti)Team: San Francisco Giants
Position: C
Age: 31
Experience: 10 years
Rookie season: 2009
Financials
2018 total salary: $22,177,777
Base salary: $21,400,000
Signing bonus: $777,777
Contract: 8 years, $159,000,000
Free Agent: 2023
Career Statistics
AVG: .306
HR: 133
RBI: 635
R: 552
SB: 23
2018 Statistics
AVG: .284
HR: 5
RBI: 41
R: 47
SB: 3
2017 Statistics
AVG: .320
HR: 12
RBI: 67
R: 62
SB: 6
Bottom line: A key cog in the Giants’ three World Series championship runs several years ago, Posey has been a model of consistency over his 10-year career.
A former Rookie of the Year and MVP, the 31-year-old is a fan favorite in the Bay Area and continues to produce at the plate.
While his power has slightly diminished, the six-time All-Star been able to maintain his usual high average.
#21: Cole Hamels
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Cole Hamels throws to a Cincinnati Reds batter during the first inning of a 2018 game in Chicago.Team: Chicago Cubs
Position: SP
Age: 34
Experience: 13 years
Rookie season: 2006
Financials:
2018 total salary: $22,500,000
Base salary: $22,500,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 6 years, $144,000,000
Free Agent: 2020
Career Statistics
W-L: 156-111
ERA: 3.39
IP: 2,521.2
K: 2,384
2018 Statistics
W-L: 9-12
ERA: 3.78
IP: 190.2
K: 188
2017 Statistics
W-L: 11-6
ERA: 4.20
IP: 148
K: 105
Bottom line: Hamels, one of the most consistent starters of this generation, spent nine full seasons with the Philadelphia Phillies and was then dealt midway through the 2015 season to the Texas Rangers.
After two campaigns in Arlington, Hamels found himself on the move this summer as he was traded to the Cubs.
The third Chicago starter on this list, the lanky lefty might be the final piece to the puzzle for Wrigley Field to be hosting World Series games again.
#20: Joe Mauer
Minnesota Twins first baseman Joe Mauer takes a lead at first base against the Pittsburgh Pirates in a 2018 game in Minneapolis.Team: Minnesota Twins
Position: 1B
Age: 35
Experience: 15 years
Rookie season: 2004
Financials:
2018 total salary: $23,000,000
Base salary: $23,000,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 8 years, $184,000,000
Free Agent: 2019
Career Statistics
AVG: .306
HR: 142
RBI: 914
R: 1,003
SB: 52
2018 Statistics
AVG: .282
HR: 6
RBI: 48
R: 64
SB: 0
2017 Statistics:
AVG: .305
HR: 7
RBI: 71
R: 69
SB: 2
Bottom line: From 2006 to 2013, Mauer was one of the top 15 hitters in baseball, garnering six All-Star Game appearances, five Silver Slugger awards, and MVP honors in 2009.
Ever since he turned 30, however, the future Hall of Famer hasn’t been the same. In the final year of his monster contract, it’ll be intriguing to see if the Twins make an effort to re-sign the 6-foot-5 first baseman and ensure his final year(s) in the game are spent where they began.
#19: Josh Donaldson
Cleveland Indians third baseman Josh Donaldson during a 2018 game against the Tampa Bay Rays.Team: Cleveland Indians
Position: 3B
Age: 32
Experience: 8 years
Rookie season: 2010
Financials:
2018 total salary: $23,000,000
Base salary: $23,000,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 1 year, $23,000,000
Free Agent: 2019
Career Statistics
AVG: .275
HR: 179
RBI: 544
R: 548
SB: 34
2018 Statistics
AVG: .234
HR: 8
RBI: 23
R: 30
SB: 2
2017 Statistics
AVG: .270
HR: 33
RBI: 78
R: 65
SB: 2
Bottom line: Donaldson’s home run totals from 2013 through 2017 are as follows: 24, 29, 41, 37, 33. Not bad, right? The problem with the former MVP is that he’s entering free agency once again this winter following an injury-riddled campaign that has kept him out for all but 36 games.
When healthy, the 32-year-old is one of the best players in baseball, so it’ll be interesting to see what his next contract will look like.
#18: J.D. Martinez
Boston Red Sox right fielder J.D. Martinez tosses his bat after striking out during the eighth inning of a 2018 game against the New York Yankees in Boston.Team: Boston Red Sox
Position: OF
Age: 30
Experience: 8 years
Rookie season: 2011
Financials
2018 total salary: $23,750,000
Base salary: $23,750,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 5 years, $110,000,000
Free Agent: 2023
Career Statistics
AVG: .292
HR: 191
RBI: 591
R: 494
SB: 21
2018 Statistics
AVG: .330
HR: 43
RBI: 130
R: 111
SB: 6
2017 Statistics
AVG: .303
HR: 45
RBI: 104
R: 85
SB: 4
Bottom line: After three seasons as a role player with the Houston Astros, Martinez came into his own as a member of the Detroit Tigers four years ago.
He then compiled 128 homers from 2014-2017 leading into his free-agency period. This past offseason, he cashed in on that strong run by signing a lucrative deal with the Red Sox — and he’s rewarded them with another 35-plus homer, 100-plus RBI campaign.
At age 30, he’s sure to produce several more powerful seasons at the plate.
#17: Jordan Zimmermann
Detroit Tigers pitcher Jordan Zimmermann throws against the Chicago Cubs in the first inning of a baseball game in Detroit, Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2018. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya)Team: Detroit Tigers
Position: SP
Age: 32
Experience: 10 years
Rookie season: 2009
Financials
2018 total salary: $24,000,000
Base salary: $24,000,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 5 years, $110,000,000
Free Agent: 2021
Career Statistics
W-L: 94-76
ERA: 3.78
IP: 1,471.1
K: 1,169
2018 Statistics
W-L: 7-8
ERA: 4.52
IP: 131.1
K: 111
2017 Statistics
W-L: 8-13
ERA: 6.08
IP: 160
K: 103
Bottom line: This contract might be the ugliest on our list. Zimmermann — known as a solid starter for the majority of his 10-year career, especially during his seven years with the Washington Nationals — has been utterly disappointing. In 2016, his first with the Tigers, he racked up a 4.87 ERA in just 105.1 innings.
Then, last season, he recorded an 8-13 record and a 608 ERA over 160 innings. Despite his numbers being slightly better this year, he’s had to answer questions about his hefty deal and lack of production on the mound.
"I still have two years left," he told the Detroit Free Press. "A lot of things can happen, and we’ll see. We’ll talk more at the end of the contract, and we’ll have this conversation then, but I don’t think right now is the right time for that."
#16: Robinson Cano
Seattle Mariners second baseman Robinson Cano in the first inning during a 2018 game against the Arizona Diamondbacks in Phoenix.Team: Seattle Mariners
Position: 2B
Age: 35
Experience: 14 years
Rookie season: 2005
Financials:
2018 total salary: $24,000,000
Base salary: $24,000,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 10 years, $240,000,000
Free Agent: 2024
Career Statistics
AVG: .304
HR: 308
RBI: 1214
R: 1,178
SB: 51
2018 Statistics
AVG: .303
HR: 10
RBI: 50
R: 44
SB: 0
2017 Statistics
AVG: .280
HR: 23
RBI: 97
R: 76
SB: 1
Bottom line: After nine years with the New York Yankees, Cano signed with the Mariners for a substantially larger amount of money than the Bronx Bombers were willing to offer.
While the eight-time All-Star has continued his typical offensive production with Seattle, his tenure there — now in its fifth year — hasn’t always been easy. This past May 15, he was suspended 80 games for testing positive for furosemide, which is a diuretic that can be used to mask performance-enhancing drugs.
Still on the books for another five years, the 35-year-old is out to prove he is worth his paycheck. "I want to earn every penny that I get here," Cano told the New York Times. "I don’t want to be like those guys that, two or three years into their contract, they do really good and then they don’t care. I do care. … That’s how I want to be remembered, as a guy that was productive in this game, not a guy that just feels comfortable because he gets the money."
#15: Yu Darvish
Chicago Cubs pitcher Yu Darvish watches from the dugout before a 2018 game against the St. Louis Cardinals in St. Louis.Team: Chicago Cubs
Position: SP
Age: 31
Experience: 6 years
Rookie season: 2012
Financials
2018 total salary: $25,000,000
Base salary: $25,000,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 6 years, $126,000,000
Free Agent: 2024
Career Statistics
W-L: 57-45
ERA: 3.49
IP: 872.1
K: 1,070
2018 Statistics
W-L: 1-3
ERA: 4.95
IP: 40
K: 49
2017 Statistics
W-L: 10-12
ERA: 3.86
IP: 186.2
K: 209
Bottom line: In July 2017, Darvish was traded by the rebuilding Texas Rangers to the Los Angeles Dodgers. After helping the club earn the National League pennant, though, he faltered in the Fall Classic by failing to get out of the second inning in each of his starts.
Regardless of his shoddy World Series appearances, the strikeout machine has been considered among the best pitchers in baseball since he burst on the scene in 2012.
This year, his first as a member of the Cubs, has been a frustrating one with multiple stints on the disabled list. We’ll see if he can get healthy for a potential run through October.
#14: Joey Votto
Cincinnati Reds first baseman Joey Votto hits an RBI single off Arizona Diamondbacks relief pitcher T.J. McFarland in the eighth inning of a 2018 game in Cincinnati.Team: Cincinnati Reds
Position: 1B
Age: 34
Experience: 12 years
Rookie season: 2007
Financials:
2018 total salary: $25,000,000
Base salary: $25,000,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 10 years, $225,000,000
Free Agent: 2025
Career Statistics
AVG: .311
HR: 266
RBI: 887
R: 925
SB: 73
2018 Statistics
AVG: .284
HR: 12
RBI: 67
R: 67
SB: 2
2017 Statistics
AVG: .320
HR: 36
RBI: 100
R: 106
SB: 5
Bottom line: Votto, a six-time All-Star and former MVP who turns 35 this month, is one of the most consistent hitters in baseball.
Of all his impressive accolades throughout his 12-year career in Cincinnati, the most eye-opening might be that he’s led the major leagues in on-base percentage seven — yes, seven — times.
There’s been a dip in his power numbers this season, though, so a steady decline in overall production might be on the horizon.
#13: Giancarlo Stanton
New York Yankees left fielder Giancarlo Stanton runs to first on his single during the fourth inning of the second baseball game of a split doubleheader against the Baltimore Orioles, on Aug. 25, 2018, in Baltimore.Team: New York Yankees
Position: OF
Age: 28
Experience: 9 years
Rookie season: 2010
Financials:
2018 total salary: $25,000,000
Base salary: $25,000,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 13 years, $325,000,000
Free Agent: 2029
Career Statistics
AVG: .269
HR: 300
RBI: 756
R: 663
SB: 41
2018 Statistics
AVG: .270
HR: 38
RBI: 100
R: 102
SB: 5
2017 Statistics
AVG: .281
HR: 59
RBI: 132
R: 123
SB: 2
Bottom line: The only thing larger than Stanton himself is probably the hulking outfielder’s whopping contract.
The reigning MVP has backed up his massive deal with elite production, though. Injuries have taken away a chunk of his playing time over the years, but he finally suited up for more than 150 games in 2017, when he exploded for 59 home runs and 132 RBI during his final season with the Miami Marlins.
Now with the Bronx Bombers, Stanton is a key component to the team’s playoff run.
#12: Felix Hernandez
Seattle Mariners starting pitcher Felix Hernandez works against a San Diego Padres batter during the first inning of a 2018 game in San Diego.Team: Seattle Mariners
Position: SP
Age: 32
Experience: 14 years
Rookie season: 2005
Financials:
2018 total salary: $26,857,142
Base salary: $26,000,000
Signing bonus: $857,142
Contract: 7 years, $175,000,000
Free Agent: 2020
Career Statistics
W-L: 168-127
ERA: 3.33
IP: 2,650
K: 2,461
2018 Statistics
W-L: 8-14
ERA: 5.55
IP: 155.2
K: 125
2017 Statistics
W-L: 6-5
ERA: 4.36
IP: 86.2
K: 78
Bottom line: Has the King been knocked off his throne? "King Felix" logged 10 consecutive seasons with 30 or more starts and eight straight years with over 200 innings pitched.
Since 2016, though, not only have his numbers noticeably suffered (he was banished to the bullpen in August), his health has become a chronic issue, too.
The six-time All-Star and former Cy Young winner will look to bounce back next year as he hits the open market again in 2020, when he’ll be only 34 years old.
#11: Jon Lester
Chicago Cubs starting pitcher Jon Lester delivers during the first inning of a 2018 game against the New York Mets in Chicago.Team: Chicago Cubs
Position: SP
Age: 34
Experience: 13 years
Rookie season: 2006
Financials:
2018 total salary: $27,500,000
Base salary: $22,500,000
Signing bonus: $5,000,000
Contract: 6 years, $155,000,000
Free Agent: 2021
Career Statistics
W-L: 174-97
ERA: 3.52
IP: 2,342.1
K: 2,167
2018 Statistics
W-L: 15-5
ERA: 3.32
IP: 181.2
K: 149
2017 Statistics
W-L: 13-8
ERA: 4.33
IP: 180.2
K: 180
Bottom line: Like Jason Heyward, Lester was a beneficiary of the Cubs writing blank checks to ensure a World Series was won within a short window. Mission accomplished.
Not only was the five-time All-Star instrumental in Chicago breaking the Curse of the Billy Goat in 2016, he has continued to serve as a stellar high-level starter in a rotation that might make another appearance in the Fall Classic this year.
#10: Justin Verlander
Houston Astros starting pitcher Justin Verlander throws against the Colorado Rockies during the first inning of a 2018 game in Houston.Team: Houston Astros
Position: SP
Age: 35
Experience: 14 years
Rookie season: 2005
Financials:
2018 total salary: $28,000,000
Base salary: $28,000,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 6 years, $162,000,000
Free Agent: 2020
Career Statistics
W-L: 202-123
ERA: 3.41
IP: 2,733
K: 2,664
2018 Statistics
W-L: 16-9
ERA: 2.52
IP: 214
K: 290
2017 Statistics
W-L: 15-8
ERA: 3.36
IP: 206
K: 219
Bottom line: After spending more than a decade with the Detroit Tigers, Verlander was dealt to the Astros late last summer — and the ace ultimately helped the team win its first-ever World Series.
This year, the 35-year-old flamethrower has been nothing short of terrific and could be the key to Houston treating their fans to back-to-back crowns.
#9: Jason Heyward
Chicago Cubs right fielder Jason Heyward is unable to catch an RBI triple by St. Louis Cardinals shortstop Paul DeJong during the third inning of a 2018 game in St. Louis.Team: Chicago Cubs
Position: OF
Age: 28
Experience: 9 years
Rookie season: 2010
Financials
2018 total salary: $28,166,667
Base salary: $21,500,000
Signing bonus: $6,666,667
Contract: 8 years, $184,000,000
Free Agent: 2024
Career Statistics
AVG: .263
HR: 122
RBI: 512
R: 631
SB: 102
2018 Statistics
AVG: .275
HR: 7
RBI: 57
R: 67
SB: 1
2017 Statistics:
AVG:.259
HR: 11
RBI: 59
R: 59
SB: 4
Bottom line: Heyward spent five productive years with the Atlanta Braves and then registered 13 home runs, 60 RBI, 23 stolen bases and a .293 average in 2015 for the St. Louis Cardinals.
In trying to augment their lineup as much as possible for a World Series run, the Chicago Cubs handed Heyward a plethora of money to stand out among the likes of Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo and company.
Though Heyward has been extremely disappointing for Chicago, he was a part of the historic squad that captured the franchise’s first Fall Classic title in 108 years.
#8: Yoenis Cespedes
New York Mets left fielder Yoenis Cespedes connects for a base hit against the New York Yankees during a 2018 game at Yankee Stadium.Team: New York Mets
Position: OF
Age: 32
Experience: 7 years
Rookie season: 2012
Financials:
2018 total salary: $29,000,000
Base salary: $29,000,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 4 years, $110,000,000
Free Agent: 2021
Career Statistics
AVG: .274
HR: 163
RBI: 524
R: 472
SB: 43
2018 Statistics
AVG: .262
HR: 9
RBI: 29
R: 20
SB: 3
2017 Statistics
AVG: .292
HR: 17
RBI: 42
R: 46
SB: 0
Bottom line: After helping New York reach the World Series in 2015 and the wild-card game in 2016, it’s been all downhill from there.
An assortment of injuries has kept the outfielder from serving as the primary offensive threat for the Mets, whose championship window seemingly has been slammed shut.
#7: Jake Arrieta
Philadelphia Phillies starting pitcher Jake Arrieta throws during the first inning of a 2018 game against the New York Mets in Philadelphia.Team: Philadelphia Phillies
Position: SP
Age: 32
Experience: 9 years
Rookie season: 2010
Financials
2018 total salary: $30,000,000
Base salary: $30,000,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 3 years, $75,000,000
Free Agent: 2021
Career Statistics
W-L: 98-65
ERA: 3.58
IP: 1,315.2
K: 1,190
2018 Statistics
W-L: 10-11
ERA: 3.96
IP: 172.2
K: 138
2017 Statistics:
W-L: 14-10
ERA: 3.53
IP: 168.1
K: 163
Bottom line: Arrieta enjoyed four full seasons with the Chicago Cubs from 2014-17 and most notably won the 2015 Cy Young award after going 22-6 with a 1.77 ERA over 33 starts and 229 innings.
He followed that spectacular campaign with two solid years, ultimately enticing the rebuilding Phillies to bolster their rotation with his talents.
So far, so good. In fact, with a run in the playoffs, his newly signed deal will look like a bargain.
#6: Albert Pujols
Los Angeles Angels first baseman Albert Pujols steps in to bat against the Arizona Diamondbacks during the first inning of a 2018 game in Phoenix.Team: Los Angeles Angels
Position: 1B
Age: 38
Experience: 18 years
Rookie season: 2001
Financials
2018 total salary: $30,000,000
Base salary: $27,000,000
Signing bonus: $3,000,000
Contract: 10 years, $240,000,000
Free Agent: 2022
Career Statistics
AVG: .302
HR: 639
RBI: 1,982
R: 1,773
SB: 111
2018 Statistics
AVG: .245
HR: 19
RBI: 64
R: 50
SB: 1
2017 Statistics:
AVG: .241
HR: 23
RBI: 101
R: 53
SB: 3
Bottom line: Pujols is a surefire Hall of Famer who has collected three MVPs and 10 All-Star Game selections.
While he might not be the elite offensive player he used to be, the 38-year-old is still producing for the Angels, and entered the current season having averaged 31 home runs in the previous three years.
#5: Miguel Cabrera
Detroit Tigers first baseman Miguel Cabrera slides into first after fielding a grounder hit by Minnesota Twins first baseman Logan Morrison for the out during the third inning of a 2018 game in Detroit.Team: Detroit Tigers
Position: 1B
Age: 35
Experience: 16 years
Rookie season: 2003
Financials:
2018 total salary: $30,000,000
Base salary: $30,000,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 8 years, $248,000,000
Free Agent: 2024
Career Statistics
AVG: .316
HR: 465
RBI: 1,635
R: 1,388
SB: 38
2018 Statistics
AVG: .299
HR: 3
RBI: 22
R: 17
SB: 0
2017 Statistics
AVG: .249
HR:16
RBI: 60
R: 50
SB: 0
Bottom line: With injuries derailing the final part of 2017 and a ruptured tendon in his bicep costing him all but 38 games in 2018, the Tigers are coming to grips with this fact: Cabrera’s best days are behind him.
At age 35, he will not revert to the feared slugger who earned two straight MVP awards — including seven top-five finishes in voting from 2005-13 — and captured baseball’s first Triple Crown in 45 years back in 2012.
Cabrera is undoubtedly a future Hall of Famer and one of the top sluggers of this generation. However, it’s a tad cringeworthy to think the Tigers are on the hook to pay him through 2024.
#4: David Price
Boston Red Sox starting pitcher David Price delivers during the first inning of a 2018 game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Fenway Park in Boston.Team: Boston Red Sox
Position: SP
Age: 32
Experience: 11 years
Rookie season: 2008
Financials:
2018 total salary: $30,000,000
Base salary: $30,000,000
Signing bonus: N/A
Contract: 7 years, $217,000,000
Free Agent: 2023
Career Statistics
W-L: 141-74
ERA: 3.25
IP: 1,898.2
K: 1,828
2018 Statistics
W-L: 16-7
ERA: 3.58
IP: 176
K: 177
2017 Statistics
W-L: 6-3
ERA: 3.38
IP: 74.2
K: 76
Bottom line: After spending 2015 with the Detroit Tigers and then the Toronto Blue Jays as a pennant-chase rental pitcher for two months, Price landed (at the time) the largest contract ever awarded to a pitcher.
The lanky left-hander rewarded Boston’s deep investment with a stellar year, posting 17 wins and a 3.99 ERA over 35 starts, but endured a strange 2017 during which he spent extended time on the disabled list.
Now back to the rotation and pitching well in 2018, Price could justify his whopping salary by helping the Red Sox win a World Series crown.
#3: Zack Greinke
Arizona Diamondbacks pitcher Zack Greinke throws in the first inning during a 2018 game against the Seattle Mariners in Phoenix.Team: Arizona Diamondbacks
Position: SP
Age: 34
Experience: 15 years
Rookie season: 2004
Financials
2018 total salary: $34,000,000
Base salary: $31,000,000
Signing bonus: $3,000,000
Contract: 6 years, $206,500,000
Free Agent: 2022
Career Statistics
W-L: 186-116
ERA: 3.37
IP: 2,631.2
K: 2,412
2018 Statistics
W-L: 15-11
ERA: 3.21
IP: 207.2
K: 199
2017 Statistics
W-L: 17-7
ERA: 3.20
IP: 202.1
K: 215
Bottom line: Coming off a spectacular season in which he posted a 19-3 record, 1.66 ERA and 200 strikeouts in 222.2 innings as the National League’s Cy Young runner-up, Greinke bolted the Los Angeles Dodgers for the Diamondbacks and his current fat paycheck.
He’s been extremely solid for Arizona, though, and shows no signs of slowing down as one of baseball’s most consistent, high-level starting pitchers.
#2: Mike Trout
Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout runs toward first base after hitting a triple during the first inning of a 2018 game against the Houston Astros in Anaheim, Calif.Team: Los Angeles Angels
Position: OF
Age: 27
Experience: 8 years
Rookie season: 2011
Financials
2018 total salary: $33,250,000
Base salary: $34,083,333
Signing bonus: $833,333
Contract: 6 years, $144,500,000
Free Agent: 2021
Career Statistics
AVG: .306
HR: 232
RBI: 632
R: 780
SB: 187
2018 Statistics
AVG: .305
HR: 39
RBI: 79
R: 101
SB: 24
2017 Statistics
AVG: .306
HR: 33
RBI: 72
R: 92
SB: 21
Bottom line: Trout is easily the top player in baseball — and his numbers prove it. It’s almost unbelievable that the outfielder had placed either first or second in MVP voting for five consecutive years from 2012-16.
An injury-riddled campaign in 2017 held him to just 114 games, and he still came in fourth place among the top players in the American League. The seven-time All-Star is just entering his prime at 26.
Enjoy it, baseball fans. This is a once-in-a-generation legend.
#1: Clayton Kershaw
Los Angeles Dodgers starter Clayton Kershaw pitches in a 2012 game against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium.Team: Los Angeles Dodgers
Position: SP
Age: 30
Experience: 11 years
Rookie season: 2008
Financials
2018 total salary: $35,571,428
Base salary: $33,000,000
Signing bonus: $2,571,428
Contract: 7 years, $215,000,000
Free Agent: 2021
Career Statistics
W-L: 150-69
ERA: 2.37
IP: 2,066.1
K: 2,247
2018 Statistics
W-L: 9-5
ERA: 2.73
IP: 161.1
K: 155
2017 Statistics
W-L: 18-4
ERA: 2.31
IP: 175
K: 202
Bottom line: Kershaw, arguably the game’s best pitcher, had been an All-Star for seven consecutive seasons until injuries derailed this current campaign.
Limited due to lower back pain earlier in the year— he missed over a month with the same ailment in 2017 — he has returned and is lifting the Dodgers during their playoff chase.
The three-time Cy Young award-winner and former MVP needs to stay healthy if L.A. plans on punching its ticket to another World Series.