The combined 2025 payroll for MLB's 12 playoff teams totals a whopping $2.4 billion. Meaning these teams have managed to exceed the annual Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of twenty-two entire countries.
In Tuvalu, the national GDP ($62 million) equals Juan Soto's annual salary. Remarkable considering the Mets didn't even make the playoffs. In Palau, annual production is barely enough to cover Aaron Judge’s home run bonus. Meanwhile, the Marshall Islands' GDP might get you through the first 40 games of Mookie Betts’ contract. Kiribati? Well, they could buy about two-thirds of Giancarlo Stanton’s quad strain treatment. It’s all about perspective. One man's closer is another nation’s annual healthcare and defense budget.
Who pays for this kingly compensation? The fans of course. YOU pay these salaries every time you purchase a ticket, game beer, jersey, streaming service.
So the next time you hear about a record-breaking deal in the MLB, remember that it’s not just big money—it’s small country money. And if your personal payroll is a tad shy of a major-leaguer, remember that you can always find great savings on the fan gear and sporting goods you want at AMFANS.
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AMFANS saves you money on all sports. AMFANS members receive verified discounts on the best fan gear, sporting goods and sportswear and puts them all in one convenient place, making it easy for you and your family to save money. AMFANS also directly supports the AMFANS Foundation, which provides funding to numerous American sports-related charities. And AMFANS serves as the premier national association representing your interests as a sports fan.
