Bobby Bonilla Day isn’t the only July 1 payday making headlines. The Baltimore Orioles are also writing a hefty check, this time to Chris Davis, the former power-hitting first baseman who hasn’t taken an MLB swing since 2020.
According to Spotrac, the Orioles paid $9.16 million to Davis on Tuesday as part of a pair of deferred payment agreements stemming from his massive 7-year, $161 million deal signed in 2016. That deal, once the richest in Orioles history, continues to impact their books in a big way.
And the payouts aren’t done. Davis is still owed a whopping $31.5 million in deferred money, which he’ll receive in annual payments through 2037. Making this one of the most backloaded contracts in MLB history.
Davis’ Meteoric Rise and Stunning Decline
Davis, now 39, was once among the most feared sluggers in baseball. In 2013, he erupted with 53 home runs and 138 RBIs, finishing third in AL MVP voting. He followed that up with a 47-homer season in 2015, setting the stage for his historic contract extension.
But the highs came with steep lows. Davis struck out more than 200 times in back-to-back seasons and finished his career with a .233 batting average. From 2017 to 2020, his production dipped significantly, culminating in an early retirement due to hip injuries.
Still, the former Minor League Player of the Year (2007) carved out a memorable career, finishing with 295 home runs and more than 800 strikeouts in just four years.
Read More: Home Run Kings: Ranking the 30 Best in MLB History
Orioles’ Costly Reminder
The Orioles’ decision to defer a large portion of Davis’ contract was meant to ease their payroll burden at the time. But with millions still owed annually through 2037, the deal continues to serve as a reminder of the risks associated with long-term, high-dollar contracts in MLB.
Just like Bonilla with the Mets, Davis will keep cashing in long after his playing days ended.
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