Jayson Werth Net Worth: $60 Million
Jayson Werth, a former Major League Baseball (MLB) right fielder, has an estimated net worth of $60 million. Over his 15-season career in the MLB, Werth became known for his powerful hitting, leadership, and key contributions to his teams. His career spanned from 2002 to 2017, during which he played for teams like the Toronto Blue Jays, Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, and Washington Nationals.
Career Earnings and Contracts
Throughout his career, Jayson Werth earned approximately $136 million in salary alone . His most significant contract was signed in 2011 when he joined the Washington Nationals with a seven-year, $126 million deal. At the time, this contract was the 14th-largest in MLB history . From 2014 to 2017, Werth earned $20 million annually, making him one of the highest-paid players in the league .
Early Life and Athletic Background
Jayson Werth was born on May 20, 1979, in Springfield, Illinois, into a family with a rich athletic history. His mother, Kim Schofield Werth, was a track and field athlete, and his father, Jeff Werth, played both football and baseball. The family’s baseball legacy continued with Werth’s uncle Dick Schofield, his grandfather Ducky Schofield, and his great-grandfather John Schofield, all of whom played in the MLB .
Jayson Werth showing up to a Mens League game and hitting a NUKE will always be hilariouspic.twitter.com/8pHglgbl2Z
— Baseball Legends (@Leg_baseball) August 31, 2024
Werth’s parents separated when he was young, and his mother remarried MLB player Dennis Werth in 1984. This connection fueled Jayson’s passion for baseball, and by the age of seven, he was playing competitively with the Springfield Flame youth team. He went on to play at Glenwood High School in Chatham, Illinois, further honing his skills .
MLB Career Beginnings
Werth was selected by the Baltimore Orioles in the 1997 MLB Draft, beginning his professional career in the minors. He faced health challenges due to the intense Florida heat during his time with the Gulf Coast League Orioles but continued to develop his skills .
In 2000, Werth was traded to the Toronto Blue Jays, where he gradually worked his way up through the minors, eventually debuting in the MLB on September 1, 2002 .
Philadelphia Phillies and World Series Success
Werth’s career took off when he joined the Philadelphia Phillies in late 2006. He played a key role in the Phillies’ success, helping them secure the NL East division title and eventually win the 2008 World Series . During the 2009 postseason, Werth set a franchise record with nine home runs .
In his final season with the Phillies in 2010, Werth batted .296 with 27 home runs and 85 RBIs, cementing his reputation as a clutch performer .
Washington Nationals Tenure
Werth signed a lucrative deal with the Washington Nationals in 2010, where he played until 2017. Despite some skepticism surrounding his contract, Werth proved to be a valuable asset to the Nationals, contributing to multiple playoff appearances . His leadership and on-field performance helped the team clinch the NL East division titles in 2012, 2014, 2016, and 2017 .
Post-Retirement and Personal Life
After retiring from professional baseball, Werth shifted his focus to organic farming in Illinois and launched a horse racing stable called Two Eight Racing. He also became a consultant for other farmers, utilizing his business acumen to guide their ventures .
Jayson Werth married his high school sweetheart, Julia, in 2000. The couple has children, and their eldest son, Jackson, played college baseball at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee .
Real Estate Investments
In 2011, shortly after signing his contract with the Nationals, Werth purchased a 15,000-square-foot mansion in McLean, Virginia, for $6.55 million. He later sold the property in 2021 for $5.7 million .
Horse Breeding Endeavors
Werth ventured into horse breeding, becoming part-owner of Dornoch, a champion horse and brother to the 2023 Kentucky Derby champion Mage. In 2024, Dornoch won the Belmont Stakes, adding another feather to Werth’s cap in his post-baseball career .
Conclusion
Jayson Werth’s career in Major League Baseball is marked by significant achievements, both on and off the field. With a net worth of $60 million, he has successfully transitioned from baseball to other ventures, such as farming and horse breeding, while maintaining his passion for the game. His legacy as a key player in the MLB and a successful entrepreneur continues to inspire many.