Top 300 MLB Salaries in 2025 – Shohei Ohtani Leads for Second Straight Year

A salary is the fixed yearly compensation paid to a player or employee. In MLB, salaries are determined based on performance, marketability, position, and contract terms. The most common measure used for comparison is AAV (Average Annual Value), which averages total contract value over its length, regardless of payment structure or deferrals.

The 2025 MLB salary rankings clearly reflect the market value of the league’s elite players. Shohei Ohtani tops the list once again with an average annual salary of $70 million, identical to 2024. This record-breaking contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers—10 years, $700 million—is still the highest in MLB history. Though much of Ohtani’s salary is deferred, his annual average value (AAV) remains the highest ever recorded.

In second place is Juan Soto of the New York Mets, earning $46.87 million. At just 26 years old, Soto's exceptional plate discipline and power have made him one of the most valuable assets in the league. Coming in third is Zack Wheeler of the Philadelphia Phillies with $42 million, leading all pitchers in salary thanks to his consistent top-tier performance.

The top 10 includes players from powerhouse franchises such as the New York Yankees, Texas Rangers, and Los Angeles Angels. Aaron Judge, Jacob deGrom, Anthony Rendon, and Alex Bregman are all earning between $35 and $40 million, reinforcing the spending power of major-market teams. The Yankees, in particular, have five players in the top 25, demonstrating a strong financial commitment to maintaining a competitive roster.

Over 20 players are earning at least $30 million annually, signaling a growing investment in superstar talent across both pitching and hitting roles. While some clubs focus on long-term extensions, others compete aggressively in free agency, leading to a mix of homegrown stars and high-profile acquisitions.

These salary trends reaffirm MLB’s superstar-driven economy. Beyond simple numbers, these contracts represent strategic decisions by franchises aiming for postseason success, brand elevation, and fan engagement. The salary chart provides key insights into which players and teams are setting the tone in today’s baseball landscape.