Buzz
Tonight, the top stars (or at least the most talked-about names from teams with social media-savvy fanbases) of Major League Baseball will square off in the 85th edition of the All-Star Game, which isn't completely irrelevant. Since 2003, the result of the All-Star Game has been used to decide home-field advantage for the World Series. (As someone who will argue endlessly against the Wild Card playoff, I have no problem with this. Fight me in the comments.) The goal is to spark more competitive energy and motivate the players to give their best effort.
All-Stars on playoff-contending teams might have extra motivation to push themselves at the Midsummer Classic, but what exactly drives them to get there? And I mean that in the most cynical way possible. Sure, there’s the fame and the forever presence on your Wikipedia page, but what do you truly gain from making the All-Star cut?
The Major League Baseball Players Association's 2012-2016 Collective Bargaining Agreement states the following:
Every player chosen for the All-Star team or the Home Run Derby, and who attends the event, is entitled to the following: (a) six free tickets to the All-Star Game and Home Run Derby for their guests (players can request fewer tickets and may purchase additional ones for guests as per established practice); (b) first-class air travel for the player and two guests (for expenses actually incurred); (c) first-class hotel accommodations for the player and two guests (up to two rooms if needed) for up to three days; (d) a meal and tip allowance for three days; (e) a $1,000 cash stipend; (f) a gift from the player's League; and (g) merchandise offered by Major League Baseball's 27 business partners. Players selected for the All-Star team will also receive a ring, and if they are attending their 5th, 10th, or 15th All-Star Game, a special gift/memento and recognition. (See Article XV(O)(7).)
While first-class travel, luxurious hotels, and plenty of swag (not to mention the $1,000 cash) sound like a great deal, that's not nearly enough to convince a hypothetical, money-focused All-Star player—with his hefty salary—to change his approach to the game. Luckily, many players have additional incentives built into their contracts. These bonuses vary, but let’s explore what some of this year’s All-Stars are earning for their participation.
Adrian Beltre of the Rangers, Michael Brantley of the Indians, and Ian Kinsler and Miguel Cabrera of the Tigers are among the highest earners, with $100,000 bonuses included in their contracts for making the All-Star team. Adam Jones and Matt Wieters of the Orioles are next, each receiving a $75,000 bonus. A total of 26 players will earn a $50,000 bonus for being named All-Stars this year—the largest bonus group. Other players will receive bonuses of $25,000, $15,000, or $10,000.
However, the largest group of 2014 All-Stars does not have any monetary bonuses in their contracts. This no-bonus group includes big names (and obvious All-Stars) like Derek Jeter, Clayton Kershaw, and Mike Trout. So, rest easy knowing that these athletes—and likely the rest of the players as well—are mostly in it for the recognition. And, of course, the merchandise provided by Major League Baseball's 27 business partners.
