The 2025 World Series is set to kick off on Friday, October 24, featuring a competitive matchup between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays in Toronto. Both teams took unique paths to reach this stage, with the Blue Jays triumphing over the Seattle Mariners in a hard-fought seven-game series, while the Dodgers advanced effortlessly after sweeping the Milwaukee Brewers. Star player Shohei Ohtani shone brightly, hitting three home runs and striking out ten batters in the decisive fourth game.
World Series Overview
This year’s World Series not only showcases exciting baseball but also highlights the financial dynamics in Major League Baseball. Despite signing a staggering $700 million contract in late 2023, Ohtani finds himself earning only $2 million this season due to deferred payments. As the series approaches, many fans are curious not only about the games but also about which players will be the highest earners during this prestigious event. The rankings below, based on Spotrac’s “Team Cash” value, reflect each player’s base salary and signing bonuses included in their contracts.
Top Earners of the 2025 World Series
Blake Snell, Los Angeles Dodgers: $64,800,000
Blake Snell, who previously played five seasons with the Tampa Bay Rays, joined the Dodgers after a successful career. His impressive five-year, $182 million contract, which includes a $52 million signing bonus, makes him the highest earner in the World Series this year. With two Cy Young Awards and a no-hitter under his belt, Snell is eager to secure his first championship.
Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Toronto Blue Jays: $48,550,000
Following in his father’s footsteps, Hall of Famer Vladimir Guerrero Sr., Guerrero Jr. aims to bring a championship to the family. He kicked off the season with a $28.5 million arbitration salary, later signing a 14-year, $500 million deal that includes $20 million in signing bonuses this year. As a five-time All-Star and recent ALCS MVP, a title could solidify his legacy with the Blue Jays.
Tyler Glasnow, Los Angeles Dodgers: $30,000,000
Glasnow shares a recent World Series experience, having faced defeat with the Rays in 2020. Traded to the Dodgers, he contributed to their 2024 championship season despite battling injuries. This year, although limited to 18 starts, he remains a pivotal player in their quest for back-to-back titles.
Tanner Scott, Los Angeles Dodgers: $25,750,000
After spending part of the previous season with the San Diego Padres, Scott moved to the Dodgers with a four-year, $72 million contract. Although he faced challenges, including ten blown saves this year, he exhibited remarkable skill with a rare achievement: recording a save with just three pitches.
Teoscar Hernández, Los Angeles Dodgers: $25,500,000
Hernández, formerly of the Blue Jays, now carries a narrative of revenge into the World Series. He signed a one-year deal worth $23.5 million last season with the Dodgers, which led to a three-year, $66 million extension. His signing bonus significantly boosts his earnings this year.
Kevin Gausman, Toronto Blue Jays: $23,000,000
Gausman has transformed into a key starter after signing a $110 million contract with the Blue Jays. In 2023, he led Major League Baseball in strikeouts and finished third in Cy Young voting, underscoring his impact during the playoffs.
George Springer, Toronto Blue Jays: $22,500,000
A hero in the decisive Game 7 of the ALCS, Springer has previous World Series experience with the Houston Astros. Currently nearing the end of his six-year, $150 million deal with Toronto, his performance will be crucial as the Blue Jays seek their first championship in over three decades.
Tommy Edman, Los Angeles Dodgers: $22,000,000
Acquired from the St. Louis Cardinals, Edman instantly made an impact with the Dodgers, earning MVP accolades in the 2024 NLCS. He recently signed a five-year, $74 million extension, with a notable signing bonus this year.
Mookie Betts, Los Angeles Dodgers: $22,000,000
Betts is not only a prolific player with numerous accolades, including an MVP award, but also a seasoned World Series champion. Currently in a 12-year, $365 million contract, he remains a vital asset for the Dodgers as they chase another title.
Chris Bassitt, Toronto Blue Jays: $21,000,000
Bassitt’s career has taken a positive turn since joining the Blue Jays on a three-year, $63 million contract after rejecting a buyout option. Despite not being included in the ALDS roster due to injury, he has proved himself capable in the playoffs.
John is a seasoned journalist at The Bothside News, specializing in balanced reporting across news, sports, business, and lifestyle. He believes in presenting multiple perspectives to help readers form informed opinions. His work embodies the publication’s philosophy that truth emerges from examining all sides of every story.
