Here’s a shocking truth: despite leading some of the most successful teams in baseball, MLB managers often earn significantly less than their counterparts in the NFL and NBA. But why is this the case? Let’s dive into the fascinating—and sometimes controversial—world of managerial salaries in Major League Baseball.
When Pat Murphy and Stephen Vogt both won Manager of the Year in 2024, they joked about attending the annual baseball writers' dinner in New York in costume. Murphy, now the Brewers' manager, initially suggested dressing as King Jaffe Joffer from Coming to America, while Vogt, then managing the Cleveland Guardians, proposed sprinkling rose petals as they took the stage. They eventually settled on blue-and-orange tuxedos from Dumb and Dumber before deciding to keep it professional. Murphy quipped to Vogt, 'You’ll probably win this award 10 more times. This will be my last one.' Little did he know, both would go on to win the award again the following year, becoming only the second pair of managers in each league to achieve back-to-back wins.
But here’s where it gets controversial: despite their success, managerial salaries in MLB often pale in comparison to those in other major sports leagues. For instance, Craig Counsell’s $8 million annual salary with the Chicago Cubs is dwarfed by the $20 million earned by Kansas City Chiefs coach Andy Reid or the $17.5 million paid to Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr. Even more striking, several of the nine managers hired this winter are reportedly earning closer to $1 million—a fraction of what top coaches in other leagues make.
The role of an MLB manager has evolved significantly over the past three decades. While decision-making power over personnel has largely shifted to front offices, successful managers still command respect—and higher salaries. In 2025, half of the playoff teams were led by managers among the highest-paid in the game, including Dave Roberts of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Alex Cora of the Boston Red Sox, and Terry Francona of the Cincinnati Reds. Yet, the disparity between MLB managers and coaches in other leagues remains a puzzling phenomenon.
Take Pat Murphy, for example. After leading the Brewers to more wins than any other team in 2025, he was swept in the National League Championship Series by the eventual World Series champion Dodgers. Despite winning the NL Central title in both of his seasons as manager, Murphy’s contract is set to expire after 2026, echoing the situation with Craig Counsell in 2023. Murphy, now 67, brings a unique blend of old-school personality and modern analytical fluency to the role, proving that managers are far more than just in-game decision-makers.
And this is the part most people miss: managers today are extensions of their team’s front office, tasked with implementing organizational priorities while navigating ever-growing coaching staffs, volatile clubhouse dynamics, and constantly shifting rosters. They’re not just playbook-following functionaries—they’re leaders who balance tradition with innovation. Murphy, with his 'pocket pancakes' and quick wit, embodies this duality, earning the trust of players, staff, and front office alike.
So, why do MLB managers earn less? Is it undervaluation, or does the role simply not warrant the salaries seen in the NFL and NBA? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments—this is a debate worth having.
