Rob Manfred claims that MLB has’made great strides in the past few years’ when it comes to paying minor leaguers

LOS ANGELES — Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred claimed Tuesday that he rejected the notion that minor league baseball players are not paid a living wages. The statement came a day following a letter from the Senate Judiciary Committee asking about the league’s treatment for minor leaguers.

Manfred responded to a question about whether owners could afford to pay minor leaguers less or choose to not. The last few years have seen real improvements in how minor league players are compensated, including the signing bonuses that many have already received. Housing is an additional form of compensation. I don’t accept the premise of your question. I don’t have any other words to add.”

Manfred stated, in a follow up: “I reject that they don’t get a living wage.”

Although minor league salaries have increased in recent years and some teams are required to provide housing this year, most minor league players still earn below the poverty line. Players who are not on the major league roster receive between $4,800- $14,700 annually. These players are paid in-season and many have to supplement their incomes while preparing for next year.

Harry Marino (executive director of Advocates for Minor Leaguers) stated, “Most Minor League Baseball players work second jobs because they don’t have enough to live on their annual salaries.” “The Commissioner makes $17.5 Million annually. His suggestion that Minor League salaries are acceptable is both naive and absurd.

MLB settled a class-action lawsuit brought by minor leaguers alleging that they were subject to overtime and minimum-wage violations earlier this week for $185 Million. The settlement covers more than 20 000 players and allows MLB to pay minor leaguers during spring training, extended Spring Training, and instructional leagues.

Manfred received Monday’s Judiciary Leadership letter. It questioned the need for the league’s 100-year-old antitrust exemption. The letter also discussed corruption in Latin American. This is an important issue given that MLB and MLB Players Association have until July 25 to reach an agreement on a framework for an International Draft.