Thursday marked a pivotal moment in Major League Baseball as the arbitration deadline loomed large. This significant day is crucial for front offices, arbitration-eligible players, and fans, as it marks the final exchange of salary figures for the upcoming 2024 season.
Arbitration is a process that particularly impacts players with three to six years of MLB service time, with an additional group known as Super Twos, players with two-plus years of service time, also being part of this intricate dance.
The negotiation dance between teams and players defines salaries, but if a consensus proves elusive, a third-party arbitrator steps in to determine the final figures. The stakes are high – it’s a zero-sum game where either the player or the team prevails. Consequently, both parties engage in intense negotiations, often culminating in a compromise that averts the need for arbitration.
Here’s a roundup of the most noteworthy arbitration news circulating in the league:
1. Juan Soto Sets Arbitration Record
- Juan Soto has shattered Shohei Ohtani’s arbitration salary record, securing a staggering $31.5 million for the 2024 season with the New York Yankees. This landmark figure surpasses Ohtani’s $30 million salary from the previous season, cementing Soto’s place in history as a Super Two, allowing him four rounds of arbitration instead of the usual three.
2. Mets, Alonso Reach Agreement at $20.5 Million
- The New York Mets and Pete Alonso, their franchise first baseman, have inked a deal at $20.5 million for the 2024 season. This agreement marks Alonso’s final year of team control, setting the stage for his impending free agency next winter. The exceptional home run power displayed by Alonso since his 2018 debut has significantly influenced his climb into the rarefied salary territory.
3. Brewers, Burnes Settle at $15.6 Million
- Corbin Burnes and the Milwaukee Brewers have avoided arbitration clashes this year, settling on a $15.6 million contract for the upcoming season. After a contentious hearing over $750,000 last year, this resolution signifies a more amicable approach. The 2021 NL Cy Young winner remains a focal point amid offseason trade rumors, though Milwaukee seems poised to retain him for the defense of their NL Central title.
4. Braves, Fried Agree at $15 Million
- The Atlanta Braves and ace left-hander Max Fried have navigated arbitration waters smoothly, locking in a $15 million salary for the 2024 season. This agreement, slightly exceeding initial estimates, avoids potential discord and provides a sense of stability in a Braves rotation filled with uncertainties. Fried’s looming free agency after the season adds intrigue to his future with the team.
5. Guardians, Bieber Settle at $13.125 Million
- In a significant move, the Cleveland Guardians and ace pitcher Shane Bieber have reached an agreement at $13.125 million for the 2024 season. As the Guardians aim to reload, this figure becomes pivotal for potential trade discussions, offering clarity on Bieber’s cost for the upcoming season.
6. White Sox, Cease Agree at $8 Million
- Dylan Cease, a prominent name in offseason trade talks for the Chicago White Sox, solidifies his 2024 salary at $8 million. As the White Sox embark on what appears to be a rebuild, Cease’s role in their future remains uncertain. However, the clarity in his arbitration figure simplifies potential trade negotiations.
7. Shane McClanahan’s Two-Year Deal
- Left-hander Shane McClanahan and the Tampa Bay Rays sidestepped arbitration with a unique two-year, $7.2 million contract. The deal accounts for McClanahan’s expected absence during the 2024 season due to Tommy John surgery, covering his rehab and the subsequent healthy year upon his return. This commitment ties McClanahan to the Rays until after the 2027 season.
As the arbitration dust settles, these financial agreements set the stage for a season where each player’s contribution and worth will be closely scrutinized. The business side of baseball is as intricate as the game itself, and these arbitration outcomes significantly shape the landscape for the upcoming 2024 MLB season.
Other notables
- Gleyber Torres, Yankees: $14.2 million
- Willy Adames, Brewers: $12.25 million
- Framber Valdez, Astros: $12.1 million
- Kyle Tucker, Astros: $12 million
- Anthony Santander, Orioles: $11.7 million
- Christian Walker, Diamondbacks: $10.9 million
- Zac Gallen, Diamondbacks: $10.011 million
- Will Smith, Dodgers: $8.55 million
- Randy Arozarena, Rays: $8.1 million
- Walker Buehler, Dodgers: $8.025 million
- Jordan Romano, Blue Jays: $7.75 million
- Paul Sewald, Diamondbacks: $7.35 million
- Cedric Mullins, Orioles: $6.325 million
- AJ Minter, Braves: $6.22 million
- Clay Holmes, Yankees: $6 million
- Lane Thomas, Nationals: $5.45 million
- Mitch Keller, Pirates: $5.4425 million
- Ranger Suárez, Phillies: $5.05 million
- Luis Urías, Mariners: $5 million
- Thairo Estrada, Giants: $4.7 million
- Logan Gilbert, Mariners: $4.05 million
- Justin Steele, Cubs: $4 million
- Ryan Helsley, Cardinals: $3.8 million
- José Urquidy, Astros: $3.75 million
- John Means, Orioles: $3.325 million
- Dane Dunning, Rangers: $3.325 million
- Michael Kopech, White Sox: $3 million
- Tarik Skubal, Tigers: $2.65 million
- Leody Taveras, Rangers: $2.55 million
- Adbert Alzolay, Cubs: $2.11 million
No deal by deadline
The following players were unable to come to an agreement with their current team. As things stand, they are headed for an arbitration hearing, though it’s always possible they’ll agree to terms before said hearing.