Who Are the Highest Paid MLB Players in 2025? Top 10 Richest Stars

Baseball has always been a sport where superstar contracts make headlines, and today’s MLB players are earning more than ever. From long-term mega deals to record-breaking extensions, the highest paid MLB players are setting new financial benchmarks every season. Fans often wonder who tops the list and how much money these stars really make. In this article, we’ll break down the top 10 highest paid MLB players 2025, their earnings, and even their popularity on Instagram. Whether it’s power hitters or ace pitchers, these contracts prove MLB remains a league of big money and big talent.

Top 10 Highest Paid MLB Players

Here are the top paid MLB players in 2025, ranked from #10 to #1, based on their current contracts, annual earnings, and popularity within the game. This list not only highlights the highest paid MLB players but also shows how talent, consistency, and star power translate into massive financial rewards. From elite pitchers with dominant arms to sluggers who can change a game with one swing, these athletes represent the very best of baseball today. Each player on this list has secured a contract that reflects both their on-field excellence and their off-field marketability, proving why MLB remains home to some of the most lucrative deals in professional sports.

Who is the Highest Paid MLB Player?

The highest paid MLB player in 2025 is Juan Soto of the New York Yankees, earning a staggering $75 million this season. Soto’s contract shattered records, making him the top earner in baseball history. Known for his elite hitting, patience at the plate, and ability to deliver in clutch moments, Soto has quickly become one of the league’s brightest stars. Alongside his massive contract, his growing fanbase and marketability continue to make him one of the most influential and valuable figures in MLB today.

#10 Carlos Correa

Carlos Correa takes the #10 spot on the list of highest paid MLB players 2025, earning $31 million this season. Known for his clutch playoff performances and leadership, the Minnesota Twins shortstop remains one of the most valuable stars in baseball. His net worth of around $50 million is boosted by endorsements with Nike and Rawlings, alongside his multimillion-dollar contract. With over 1.1 million Instagram followers, Correa has built a loyal fanbase, particularly in Puerto Rico, where he is celebrated as a national hero. Correa is widely respected for his combination of defensive brilliance and power at the plate, making him a true two-way threat.

A World Series champion and multiple-time All-Star, he continues to be recognized as one of the top shortstops in the game. His leadership qualities have also made him a central figure in the Twins clubhouse. While not the very top of the earnings list, he proves how shortstops can secure superstar-level deals in today’s market. His blend of elite defense, timely hitting, and strong marketability keeps him firmly among the MLB highest paid players, ensuring his place in the top 10 is well-deserved.

#9 Gerrit Cole

Gerrit Cole, the ace of the New York Yankees, ranks ninth among the highest paid MLB players 2025, with $36 million in annual earnings. Signed to a record-breaking 9-year, $324 million contract, Cole remains one of the most dominant pitchers of his generation. His net worth, estimated at $120 million, is fueled by endorsements with Nike and Rawlings, proving how elite pitchers can secure long-term financial success. With 220K Instagram followers, Cole doesn’t lean heavily on social media but still enjoys a loyal baseball fanbase.

On the mound, Cole is known for his explosive fastball, devastating slider, and ability to rack up strikeouts at historic rates. He is a multiple-time All-Star and a Cy Young Award winner, continuing to anchor the Yankees’ rotation. His leadership and consistency make him indispensable for a franchise that demands excellence. Cole has also been one of the most durable arms in baseball, often ranking among league leaders in innings pitched and strikeouts. As part of the top paid MLB players, Gerrit Cole exemplifies the value of elite starting pitching. His presence on the Yankees keeps him in the spotlight, and his dominance ensures he remains one of the most valuable and highest paid MLB players today.

#8 Anthony Rendon

Anthony Rendon holds the #8 position on the highest paid MLB players 2025 list, with $38 million in annual earnings. Playing third base for the Los Angeles Angels, Rendon signed a massive 7-year, $245 million contract, one of the largest ever for his position. His net worth stands at about $90 million, boosted by deals with Nike and Franklin Sports. With 180K Instagram followers, Rendon has a smaller online presence compared to others, but his reputation as a clutch hitter and solid defender speaks volumes.
Though injuries have limited his production in recent years, Rendon’s peak with the Washington Nationals — including his key role in their 2019 World Series championship — showed why teams viewed him as a franchise cornerstone. His smooth swing, ability to drive in runs, and defensive reliability at third base made him one of the most complete infielders in the game. Even with setbacks, Rendon’s guaranteed contract keeps him firmly among the top paid MLB players, proving how long-term deals can secure generational wealth. While his future impact may depend on health, his place among the highest paid MLB players highlights how star-level talent continues to command big salaries in baseball.

#7 Mike Trout

Mike Trout, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in baseball history, ranks #7 on the highest paid MLB players 2025 list with $39 million in yearly earnings. His 12-year, $426 million deal with the Los Angeles Angels was once the richest contract in MLB history, cementing his legacy as one of the top paid MLB players of all time. Trout’s net worth is around $140 million, bolstered by endorsements with Nike, BodyArmor, and Topps. With over 2.5 million Instagram followers, Trout remains one of the most popular and marketable baseball stars worldwide. Known for his unmatched consistency, Trout brings a rare combination of power, speed, and elite defense in center field.

A three-time MVP and multiple-time Silver Slugger, he has dominated the sport for over a decade. Though recent injuries have slowed him at times, his value as both a leader and a face of the franchise remains unquestioned. As part of the top 10 highest paid MLB players, Trout’s presence demonstrates that elite all-around talent is always rewarded. Even as younger stars rise, Trout’s reputation as a future Hall of Famer and one of the game’s greatest ensures his continued place among the MLB highest paid players.

#6 Jacob deGrom

Jacob deGrom, the Texas Rangers ace, comes in at #6 among the highest paid MLB players 2025, with $40 million in annual earnings. Signed to a 5-year, $185 million contract, deGrom is a two-time Cy Young Award winner and one of the most feared pitchers of his generation. His net worth sits around $70 million, supported by endorsements with Nike and Rawlings. Though his Instagram following of 320K is modest, his dominance on the mound makes him a superstar in every sense.

When healthy, deGrom is nearly unhittable, known for his blazing fastball that can touch triple digits, pinpoint control, and devastating slider. He has led the league in ERA and strikeouts multiple times, consistently outperforming hitters in an era of high offense. Even with injury struggles, his reputation ensures teams invest heavily in his talent. His role in helping the Rangers chase championships further cements his value. As one of the top paid MLB players, deGrom proves that frontline aces remain indispensable. His inclusion in the top 10 highest paid MLB players highlights how rare talent and dominance can outweigh durability concerns in the modern game.

#5 Zack Wheeler

Zack Wheeler, the ace of the Philadelphia Phillies, secures the #5 spot on the highest paid MLB players 2025 list with $42 million this season. Known for his durability and postseason dominance, Wheeler has become the backbone of the Phillies’ rotation. His net worth is estimated at $65 million, boosted by endorsements with equipment companies and regional sponsorships. Though his Instagram following of 150K is smaller than some peers, his impact on the mound speaks far louder. Wheeler has earned multiple All-Star nods and cemented himself as one of the most consistent pitchers in baseball. His ability to mix velocity with command makes him a nightmare for hitters, while his leadership in high-pressure playoff games has elevated his reputation. In fact, his postseason heroics with the Phillies are a major reason he commands such a high salary.

As one of the top paid MLB players, Wheeler embodies the growing value of frontline pitching in today’s game. His contract is proof that consistency and reliability are just as valuable as power hitting. His place in the top 10 highest paid MLB players 2025 shows how aces continue to command superstar-level money.

#4 Aaron Judge

Aaron Judge, captain of the New York Yankees, ranks #4 among the highest paid MLB players 2025, earning $44 million annually. Judge signed a massive 9-year, $360 million contract that secured his future as the face of the Yankees franchise. With a net worth estimated at $80 million and endorsements from Adidas, Pepsi, and Oakley, Judge is one of the most marketable stars in sports. His 2.2 million Instagram followers reflect his massive global popularity.

On the field, Judge is known for his jaw-dropping home runs, Gold Glove defense in right field, and leadership as team captain. His record-breaking 62-home run season in 2022 solidified him as one of the greatest sluggers of his era, and he continues to deliver MVP-caliber performances. As one of the top paid MLB players, Judge’s combination of power, leadership, and charisma makes him an icon of the modern game. His place among the highest paid MLB players reflects not only his production but also his ability to carry the sport’s most famous franchise on his shoulders. Judge is both a financial and athletic powerhouse.

#3 Blake Snell

Blake Snell ranks #3 on the highest paid MLB players 2025 list, with $45 million in annual earnings. Pitching for the San Diego Padres, Snell has built a reputation as one of the most dominant left-handers in the game. His net worth of around $50 million is boosted by endorsements with Wilson and other sports brands. With 200K Instagram followers, Snell connects with fans through authenticity, humor, and his off-field personality.

A two-time Cy Young Award winner, Snell’s strikeout dominance and ability to shut down elite lineups make him one of the most feared pitchers today. His postseason performances have further elevated his profile, showing that he can deliver in the game’s biggest moments. As part of the top paid MLB players, Snell’s contract reflects the value teams place on true aces who can swing playoff series. His inclusion in the top 10 highest paid MLB players 2025 shows how elite pitching continues to command record-breaking contracts, making Snell one of the most valuable arms in baseball.

#2 Shohei Ohtani

Shohei Ohtani ranks #2 among the highest paid MLB players 2025, earning an astonishing $70 million with the Los Angeles Dodgers. His historic 10-year, $700 million contract is the largest in sports history, cementing him as a global superstar. With endorsements from Nike, Fanatics, Seiko, and more, Ohtani’s net worth has surpassed $120 million. He is also the most followed MLB player on Instagram, boasting 7.2 million fans worldwide.

Ohtani’s two-way ability — dominating as both an elite pitcher and a feared slugger — has redefined the sport. He is a multiple-time MVP and one of the most marketable athletes across all sports. His presence brings international attention, particularly from Japan, where he is a cultural icon. As one of the top paid MLB players, Ohtani’s influence stretches far beyond the field. His record-breaking contract highlights how unique talent can reshape the market. His role in the top 10 highest paid MLB players 2025 list is unquestioned, as he is not just one of the MLB’s highest earners but also one of the most influential athletes worldwide.

#1 Juan Soto

Juan Soto takes the crown as the #1 highest paid MLB player 2025, earning $75 million this season with the New York Yankees. Still only in his mid-20s, Soto’s record-breaking contract makes him not only one of the top paid MLB players, but also a symbol of baseball’s future. His net worth, estimated at $110 million, is bolstered by endorsements with Adidas and Gatorade. With 1.6 million Instagram followers, Soto’s influence is growing rapidly, especially in his home country of the Dominican Republic.
Soto’s trademark patience at the plate, combined with his ability to hit for both power and average, has made him one of the most dangerous hitters in baseball. Already a World Series champion and multiple-time All-Star, his resume is unmatched for a player his age. As the leader of the top 10 highest paid MLB players 2025, Soto represents the new wave of superstar contracts. His rise shows how teams are willing to invest massive sums in young talent that can dominate for years to come. Soto’s combination of skill, charisma, and global marketability ensures his spot at the very top of the MLB highest paid players list for the foreseeable future.