When it comes to Major League Baseball, the biggest stars usually rake in millions from their contracts, but sometimes the real money comes once they step off the field. Whether it’s endorsement deals, business ventures, or simply having the kind of face that looks great in a razor commercial, some players have cashed in big time without swinging a bat.
These are the guys who turned their MLB fame into marketing gold, with bank accounts that owe more to boardrooms than base hits. From legends with sneaker lines to quirky personalities turned TV regulars, these 16 players made the off-field hustle look effortless.
16. Eric Byrnes
Known more for his energy than his stats, Byrnes became a media personality almost instantly after retiring. He turned post-career hustle into lucrative analyst gigs and outdoor brand deals.
15. Kevin Millar
Millar leaned all the way into his “fun uncle” vibe and turned it into a broadcasting career that paid off. His role on MLB Network and corporate speaking gigs kept his wallet thicker than most of his contracts ever did.
14. José Canseco
Say what you want about him, but Canseco knew how to stay in the headlines—and that kept the checks coming. Book deals, reality shows, and a strange but profitable side hustle in celebrity boxing added up fast.
13. Barry Zito
Zito had a solid career, but his music and entertainment interests made for a surprisingly lucrative second act. He scored endorsements, TV appearances, and even released an album.
12. Johnny Damon
Damon’s combination of charisma and postseason success made him an easy pick for brands. From commercials to TV appearances, he cashed in long after his bat cooled off.
11. Pete Rose
Despite being banned from baseball, Rose found ways to cash in on his name. Between autograph signings, TV spots, and appearances in Vegas, the income kept flowing.
10. Nick Swisher
Swisher’s personality was tailor-made for commercials, hosting gigs, and brand partnerships. His TV-friendly energy gave him staying power even after his playing days ended.
9. Derek Dietrich
He was never an All-Star, but his flashy style and larger-than-life personality caught the attention of fitness brands and fashion outlets. Dietrich made more waves (and money) posing than playing.
8. Manny Ramirez
Manny being Manny wasn’t just a catchphrase—it was a marketing opportunity. His quirks and fame led to countless off-field earnings, especially overseas.
7. Bryce Harper
Harper came into the league with hype and hasn’t stopped building his brand since. With major deals from apparel and beverage companies, he’s a marketing machine.
6. Alex Rodriguez
A-Rod’s post-playing career might be even more lucrative than his record-breaking contracts. With media gigs, business investments, and a massive personal brand, he became a mogul.
5. Ichiro Suzuki
Ichiro’s quiet charisma made him a massive star in both the U.S. and Japan. His endorsements overseas alone probably outpaced many of his MLB paychecks.
4. David Ortiz
Big Papi’s smile made him a commercial darling the second he retired. He’s been everywhere—cigars, sports drinks, shoes—you name it, he’s endorsed it.
3. Shohei Ohtani
Ohtani is a two-way phenom, but his global appeal has made him a marketing goldmine. His endorsements across Japan and America might already rival his actual salary.
Read More: 15 Athletes Who Turned Endorsements Into Empires
2. Ken Griffey Jr.
The Kid was Nike’s answer to Jordan for baseball, and that endorsement lasted well beyond his playing career. Between shoes, video games, and memorabilia, he cashed in heavily.
Read More: 25 MLB Players Everyone Rooted for No Matter the Team
1. Derek Jeter
Jeter was basically a brand unto himself. From Gatorade to car commercials to his own media company, the Captain stayed rich long after leaving the Yankees.
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