MLB Teams Average Record Value of $2B

Forbes unveiled its list of most valuable MLB franchises in 2022, and a new stream of revenue has deepened the pockets of big-market teams. 

MLB saw the average value of its teams reach a record $2.07 billion, a 9% increase year-over-year, behind the introduction of ads on uniforms and the expansion of its postseason. 

The new revenue stream could annually generate more than $400 million combined for MLB teams over the last four years of the league’s new five-year collective bargaining agreement.

The influx of new sponsors has increased the valuation of MLB’s big-market teams. 

• The New York Yankees are valued at a record $6 billion, becoming the second-most valuable sports team in the world behind the Dallas Cowboys ($6.5 billion).
• The Los Angeles Dodgers have emerged as the second-most valuable MLB team with a $4.07 billion valuation, a 14% increase year-over-year.
• The Boston Red Sox are not far behind with a $3.9 billion valuation, up 13% compared to 2021, and an operating income of $69 million.

The Miami Marlins kept their spot as the least valuable franchise in MLB. Last month, Hall of Fame shortstop Derek Jeter announced he is stepping down as CEO of the Marlins and selling his 4% stake in the franchise worth roughly $44.8 million. 

A New Day 

Earlier this month, MLB and its Players Association voted to accept MLB’s proposal for a new CBA following a 99-day lockout that delayed Opening Day by a week.

The CBA reportedly saw the competitive-balance tax threshold raised to $230 million for this season, up from $210 million in 2021.