With tonight’s World Baseball Classic coming to a close, Major League Baseball now turns its full attention back to spring training. The stars of America’s pastime will soon open the regular season in pursuit of baseball glory.
For some players, success on the field creates even greater opportunities off it. The game’s top performers don’t just land massive contracts—they also secure lucrative endorsement deals.
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One player stands far above the rest, earning roughly ten times more in endorsements than his peers: Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The top 15 MLB earners—factoring in both average annual salary and endorsements—highlight a clear trend. For most players, salary makes up the bulk of their income. Ohtani breaks that pattern.
His endorsement earnings alone surpass the combined totals of the next two highest-earning MLB players—an extraordinary feat for the MVP.
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His portfolio includes major partnerships with New Balance and Fanatics, along with global deals spanning Porsche Japan and Fortnite. These collaborations underscore his immense international appeal.
Mar 14, 2026; Miami, FL, United States; Japan designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (16) rounds the bases after hitting a home run against Venezuela in the first inning during a quarterfinal game of the 2026 World Baseball Classic at loanDepot Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Ohtani has become the face of MLB—and he may soon emerge as the face of professional sports worldwide. Perhaps what might be more impressive is the fact his MLB contract is primarily in deferred years.
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If there is a title above International Super Star, it almost certainly describes Ohtani.
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