Top 10 Highest-Paid MLB First Basemen in 2025

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The highest-paid MLB first basemen in 2025

The role of first baseman has evolved into a power-hitting, franchise-defining position in Major League Baseball. In 2025, teams are investing heavily in elite talent at first base—balancing offense, defense, and leadership. These players aren't just sluggers; they are pivotal pieces of championship ambitions.

Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 highest-paid MLB first basemen in 2025, based on present-day salary value as calculated by MLB.

Who are the Highest-Paid MLB First Basemen in 2025?

1. Pete Alonso – New York Mets

Salary: $30,000,000

Pete Alonso tops the list as the highest-paid first baseman in 2025. Known as "The Polar Bear," Alonso signed a massive 2-year, $54 million deal this February, following a long free agency saga that saw him linked with multiple contenders. The Mets made a bold move to retain him, and for good reason—his raw power, leadership, and clubhouse presence are irreplaceable. Despite a slightly down 2024 season (.241 AVG, 37 HRs), Alonso remains one of the premier power threats in MLB. With this contract, the Mets are betting on a bounce-back and a postseason push led by their homegrown star.

2. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. – Toronto Blue Jays

Salary: $28,500,000

At just 26, Guerrero Jr. is already a household name and now the face of a long-term rebuild in Toronto. In April 2025, he signed a record-breaking 14-year, $500 million extension—the largest contract in Blue Jays history. The slugger had a resurgent 2024, posting a .323 average, 30 home runs, and 103 RBIs, reaffirming his superstar status. His improved defense and conditioning silenced critics and elevated him to elite status among all MLB players—not just first basemen.

3. Bryce Harper – Philadelphia Phillies

Salary: $27,538,462

Bryce Harper’s transition to first base has extended his career and preserved his offensive value. While still adjusting defensively, his offensive metrics remain elite. In 2024, he slashed .292/.414/.512 with 28 homers, continuing to anchor the Phillies lineup. His 13-year, $330 million contract signed back in 2019 still pays dividends. Harper is more than a hitter—he’s a brand, a leader, and a symbol of Philly baseball.

4. Freddie Freeman – Los Angeles Dodgers

Salary: $23,353,561

A model of consistency, Freeman enters his age-35 season still playing at a high level. The 2020 NL MVP remains one of the most disciplined hitters in baseball, batting .309 with 25 home runs and a .900+ OPS in 2024. His six-year, $162 million deal with the Dodgers (signed in 2022) was seen as a win-win, and he’s more than lived up to it. Freeman is the veteran heart of a Dodgers team built for deep playoff runs.

5. Matt Olson – Atlanta Braves

Salary: $22,000,000

Matt Olson continues to thrive as the Braves’ cleanup man. With 44 home runs in 2024, he ranked among MLB’s top power hitters. His defense is Gold Glove-caliber, and he’s signed through 2030 on a team-friendly 8-year, $168 million deal. The Braves locked him up early, and it’s paying off massively. Olson is central to Atlanta’s dynasty hopes.

6. Christian Walker – Houston Astros

Salary: $20,000,000

Christian Walker was a major offseason acquisition for the Astros, signing a three-year deal to bring his glove and pop to Houston. Known for his elite defense—he led all NL first basemen in DRS in 2024—and consistent 25-30 homer power, Walker gives Houston a stable presence at the corner infield. He replaces aging veterans and brings postseason experience from his years in Arizona.

7. Rhys Hoskins – Milwaukee Brewers

Salary: $18,000,000

After returning from ACL surgery, Hoskins impressed with 29 homers and a .840 OPS for the Cubs in 2024. The Brewers signed him to a two-year, $36 million contract to provide power in the heart of their lineup. While his defense remains below average, his bat is valuable in Milwaukee’s run-starved offense. He could be a deadline trade chip or a key piece for a Wild Card push.

8. Luis Arraez – San Diego Padres

Salary: $14,000,000

Luis Arraez offers something rare in the modern game: elite contact hitting. He won his third batting title in 2024, hitting .337. Traded to San Diego last winter, he’s now the table-setter in a potent Padres offense. While he lacks power (just 6 HRs), his low strikeout rate and versatility make him a unique asset. His $14 million salary reflects his niche excellence.

9. Paul Goldschmidt – New York Yankees

Salary: $12,500,000

The 2022 NL MVP was acquired by the Yankees to bring veteran poise and a steady bat. While his numbers declined slightly last season (.268 AVG, 22 HR), Goldschmidt remains a dependable run producer. His experience and leadership are invaluable in a young Yankees clubhouse. At 37, he's not the force he once was, but he's far from done.

10. Carlos Santana – Cleveland Guardians

Salary: $12,000,000

Carlos Santana continues his journeyman resurgence with the Guardians, returning to a team where he’s long been respected. At 38, he still provides switch-hitting value and on-base skills (.355 OBP in 2024). His $12 million deal reflects his veteran leadership and ability to mentor younger hitters. He’s not just a player—he’s a clubhouse anchor.

Conclusion: What This Means for MLB

The top-paid first basemen of 2025 reflect a shift in how teams value the position: offense still rules, but leadership, consistency, and defensive value also matter. Long-term deals (Guerrero Jr.), strategic short-term splurges (Alonso, Hoskins), and veteran presence (Goldschmidt, Santana) show that there's no one-size-fits-all approach. These salaries tell the story of how MLB clubs are building their cores and investing in stability.

FAQs

Who is the highest-paid first baseman in MLB in 2025?

Pete Alonso of the New York Mets leads the list with a $30 million salary.

What team gave the biggest first base contract in 2025?

The Toronto Blue Jays signed Vladimir Guerrero Jr. to a 14-year, $500 million extension—making it the largest ever for a first baseman.

Are first basemen usually the highest-paid players?

Not always, but many of them are among the top earners due to their offensive output and leadership roles.

Is Bryce Harper now a full-time first baseman?

Yes. He transitioned to first base in 2023 to ease the wear on his body and extend his playing years.

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