How much do MLB bat boys get paid?
How much do MLB bat boys get paid?
By Oliver Wiener January 14, 2024 08:40
On average, MLB bat boys earn about $9 to $10 per hour. The salary range may vary slightly between teams, but this hourly rate is consistent across the league. Most bat boys work eight to nine-hour days during the 81 home games each year for their respective ball clubs. This equates to an estimated annual income of around $5,800 to $7,300.
Pay Structure
MLB bat boys are paid hourly, and they do not have a set base salary. They arrive at the ballpark a few hours before game time, work through the game, and stay afterward. This typically amounts to roughly eight hours of work, with the exact hours varying depending on the duration of the game. As a result, they are not full-time employees and only work during home games.
Age and Work Conditions
The majority of MLB bat boys are on the younger side, often high-school or college-age individuals. While there may be a minimum age requirement, most bat boys fall within this age range. Despite the relatively low pay, bat boys play an integral role in the organization, assisting with various tasks beyond just handling bats and equipment. They are essentially clubhouse assistants, supporting the team with various duties.
Comparison to Full-Time Employment
In comparison to a full-time job with a 40-hour work week for 52 weeks a year, the average annual income of an MLB bat boy may seem relatively low. According to Glassdoor, the Atlanta Braves pay their bat boys an hourly rate ranging from $9 to $10, equating to an average annual salary of $19,000 to $20,000. However, it's important to note that bat boys do not work nearly as many hours as a full-time employee.
Job Perks and Work Hours
Despite the relatively low pay, being an MLB bat boy comes with its own set of perks. While the job may be largely done by teenagers who are passionate about baseball, it offers the unique opportunity to be closely involved with a professional baseball team. However, the work hours can be demanding, with bat boys arriving at the stadium as early as 3 p.m. ET and staying until two hours after the game ends, sometimes lasting until midnight or even later, depending on the game duration.
while the pay for MLB bat boys may not be substantial, the job offers a unique experience for individuals who are passionate about baseball. The hourly rate, averaging around $9 to $10, reflects the part-time nature of the job and the specific work conditions associated with being a bat boy in Major League Baseball.