Former MLB All-Star Will Make $21 Million In 2014 Even Though He Doesn't Have A Job
Even though Wells has been released, MLB contracts are guaranteed and he will still be paid his 2014 salary of $21 million. It is the final year of the 7-year, $126 million contract Wells signed with the Blue Jays prior to the 2008 season.
The move is actually not that costly for the Yankees, who are only responsible for $2.4 million of the $21 million. The Los Angeles Angels will have to pay the remaining $18.6 million as part of the trade prior to last season.
When the contract ends after the 2014 season, Wells will have received ~$45 million from the Blue Jays, $67.1 million from the Angels, and $13.9 million from the Yankees since 2008. During that time, Wells hit .255 (.302 OBP), averaged 19 home runs and eight stolen bases per season, and was named to one All-Star team (2010).