According to recent data, the MLB’s average salary has hit an all-time high of US$4.2 million, reversing a trend of declining salaries over the past four years, and while this was great news for players, it also raised concerns about how payroll was being distributed across the league.
Some teams, like the New York Mets and the Texas Rangers, were leading the charge in terms of spending.
The Mets signed shortstop Francisco Lindor to a massive 10-year US$341 million contract, while ace pitcher Max Scherzer was given a three-year deal worth a record $43.3 million annually.
Meanwhile, the Rangers had spent big on middle infielders Corey Seager and Marcus Semien, shelling out a respective US$325 million and US$175 million.
While these teams were enjoying their newfound spending power, others like the Oakland A’s and Pittsburgh Pirates were struggling to keep up.
According to Fangraphs, their 2022 payrolls were just $50 million and $59 million, respectively.
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred acknowledged these disparities and spoke about the need for “direct payroll regulation” and “minimum payroll” to reduce them.
However, many in the league were concerned that this would lead to a salary cap, which the MLB Players Association opposes.
