Baltimore shortstop Gunnar Henderson is set to be the highest earner from this season’s $50 million pre-arbitration bonus pool, based on his regular-season performance. According to calculations through July 7, Henderson is on pace to receive $1,325,021, as reported in a memo sent by Major League Baseball to teams, players, and agents.
Following Henderson are Kansas City shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. with $1,192,410, and Cincinnati shortstop Elly De La Cruz with $846,669. Cleveland outfielder Steven Kwan is next at $820,588, followed by Boston outfielder Jarren Duran ($711,444) and right-hander Tanner Houck ($658,258).
Overall, 100 players will benefit from these payments, part of the 2022 collective bargaining agreement, aiming to provide more financial support to players who do not yet qualify for salary arbitration due to limited service time.
The compensation is determined based on WAR (Wins Above Replacement) calculations. Players who signed as foreign professionals are not eligible for these bonuses.
The top earners not only receive financial bonuses but will also participate in the upcoming All-Star Game. The distribution of the $50 million pool is structured to reward players based on their WAR metrics and performance in the previous year.
Gunnar Henderson and Bobby Witt Jr. have been consistent top earners in these calculations, with Henderson ranking eighth last year, earning $1,428,001, and Witt at 11th with $836,848.
In comparison, the highest earner from last year was Baltimore catcher Adley Rutschman, who is expected to receive $543,319 this year, a decrease from his previous $1,798,439.
The distribution aims to bridge the gap for young players who typically earn slightly above the MLB minimum salary, which is $740,000 this year. These bonuses provide additional financial support and recognition to rising baseball talents.
