Understanding MLB Umpires’ Salaries

Have you ever wondered how much money Major League Baseball (MLB) umpires make per game? The role of an MLB umpire is often overlooked, but it’s a highly respected and challenging profession. In this article, we’ll delve into the various aspects of an MLB umpire’s salary, including base pay, bonuses, and additional compensation.

Base Salary

The base salary for an MLB umpire can vary depending on their experience and level of expertise. According to a report by The Athletic, the starting salary for a new umpire is around $60,000 per year. However, as they gain more experience, their salary can increase significantly.

For example, a Level 1 umpire, who is typically in their first or second year, can earn a base salary of approximately $90,000. As they progress to Level 2, their salary can rise to around $120,000. By the time an umpire reaches Level 3, which is the highest level, their base salary can be as high as $180,000 or more.

Bonuses

In addition to their base salary, MLB umpires are eligible for various bonuses. One of the most significant bonuses is the postseason bonus. If an umpire is selected to work in the postseason, they can earn an additional $10,000 for each series they work in. This means that an umpire who works in the World Series can potentially earn an extra $30,000 on top of their base salary.

Other bonuses include the All-Star Game bonus, which is $5,000 for umpires who are selected to work the game, and the Wild Card Game bonus, which is $2,500 for umpires who are assigned to that game.

Per Game Compensation

When calculating an MLB umpire’s salary per game, it’s important to consider both their base salary and any bonuses they may receive. For example, a Level 3 umpire with a base salary of $180,000 and a postseason bonus of $30,000 would have a total annual compensation of $210,000.

Assuming there are 162 regular-season games and 10 postseason games, this umpire would earn approximately $1,297 per game. However, this figure doesn’t account for any additional bonuses they may receive for working in the All-Star Game or Wild Card Game.

Additional Compensation

In addition to their salary and bonuses, MLB umpires also receive other forms of compensation. For instance, they are provided with housing during the regular season and postseason, which can save them thousands of dollars in expenses.

Umpires also receive a travel stipend, which helps cover the costs of transportation to and from games. Additionally, they are provided with uniforms and equipment, which further reduces their out-of-pocket expenses.

Comparison with Other Sports Umpires

When comparing MLB umpires’ salaries to those of umpires in other sports, it’s clear that MLB umpires are among the highest-paid. For example, NBA officials earn an average of $150,000 per year, while NFL referees make around $200,000. MLB umpires, on the other hand, can earn significantly more, especially as they progress through the ranks.

Conclusion

Understanding how much money MLB umpires make per game requires considering their base salary, bonuses, and additional compensation. While the starting salary may seem modest, experienced umpires can earn a substantial income, making it a highly lucrative career choice. The dedication and skill required to become an MLB umpire are undeniable, and their salaries reflect the value they bring to the sport.

Level	Base Salary	Postseason Bonus	Total Annual Compensation
Level 1	$90,000	$10,000	$100,000
Level 2	$120,000	$10,000	$130,000
Level 3	$180,000	$30,000	$210,000