Minor league baseball salaries are often the subject of contention, especially since many are reportedly paid less than the U.S. federal minimum wage.
In 2022, Major League Baseball paid $185 million to settle a federal class-action lawsuit filed by minor league players who sought for minimum-wage and overtime violations by teams. This came after many minor leaguers reported making less than $10,000 in 2021, with teams not required to pay players during the offseason or spring training.
While the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) mandates much higher minimum salaries, players who are not on 40-man rosters and have no major league service time are not covered by the CBA. According to Major League Baseball, minor league players receive health care, tuition assistance, housing, meals, and per diem during the season.
Still, minor league salaries are a long way from the mega-deals MLB players are signing.
How Much Money Do Minor League Baseball Players Make?
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| YEAR | 1ST YEAR PLAYERS | 2ND YEAR + |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | $57,200 | $114,100 |
| 2023 | $58,800 | $117,400 |
| 2024 | $60,300 | $120,600 |
| 2025 | $62,000 | $123,900 |
| 2026 | $63,600 | $127,100 |