Highest-Paid MLB Players in 2025: Who’s Leading the Pack?

The 2025 MLB season is off to a spectacular start with significant contract signings and heightened anticipation. Five top players in terms of their base salary, payroll, contract AVV and contract value. Reports suggest the New York Mets have signed the largest contract in Major League Baseball history. Let us delve into the remarkable careers of star talents who have been rewarded with contracts befitting their extraordinary achievements. However, deciding who secures the first position in this matter can be a tricky one.


Shohei Ohtani, a Japanese professional baseball player known by the nicknames 'Shotime' and 'The Unicorn,' possesses exceptional dual talents as both a pitcher and a designated hitter. His unparalleled prowess made him the most sought-after player in the MLB. Every team coveted the unique magic of Shohei Ohtani. Ultimately, the Los Angeles Dodgers emerged victorious in the pursuit of his talents, securing his services with a monumental 10-year, $700,000,000 contract. His base salary for this season stands at $70,000,000. When compared to Soto, in terms of Base Salary, Ohtani is the highest paid but Soto recently surpassed his contract value.

Juan Soto, the 26-year-old Dominican outfielder, has inked a historic contract with the New York Mets, valued at a staggering $765 million, solidifying his position as the highest-paid player in MLB history. His base salary for this season is a substantial $46,875,000. Soto's exceptional 2024 campaign culminated in this unprecedented 15-year agreement, surpassing even Shohei Ohtani's previous record-setting contract. However, his base salary is comparatively less than that of Ohtani's. But he holds the highest place for breaking the ‘Contract-Value’ record of Ohtani.

Zack Wheeler, an American right-handed pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies, consistently ranks among the league's elite. Zack Wheeler and the Philadelphia Phillies agreed to a lucrative three-year, $126 million contract spanning 2025-27. He is one of the players with the highest average annual salary in baseball history at $42 million.

Aaron James Judge is a baseball outfielder. Six-time MLB All-Star and 2-time AL plays for the New York Yankees. He signed a 9-year, $360,000,000 contract with the Yankees. His payroll and base salary are at $40,000,000. His $360 million contract and consistent performance ensures he'll remain among the league's highest-paid players for the foreseeable future.

Jacob deGrom is arguably the most dominant pitcher. He is known to have signed a 5 year , $185,000,000 contract with the Texas Rangers, solidifying his status as one of the highest-paid pitchers in Major League Baseball. His payroll and base salary being at $40,000,000. His Contract AVV is $37,000,000.
The escalating financial landscape places immense pressure on these players to consistently deliver exceptional performances. With the spotlight shining brightly and high expectations from fans and teams alike, these players must continually evolve their game to justify their lucrative contracts and contribute significantly to their teams' success.