What is Armando Benitez's net worth and salary?
Armando Benitez is a retired professional baseball player with a net worth of $16 million. Over his 15-year MLB career, he played for various teams, including the Baltimore Orioles and the New York Mets, earning a reputation as one of the top closers in the game.
Early Life
Born in San Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic, Armando Benitez was raised by his single mother, Constancia, after she divorced his father, Francisco. He grew up in humble circumstances, with his mother making a living by hand-washing clothes.
By 14, Benitez stood at 6'2" and weighed 140 pounds. He started playing baseball at a local academy, initially positioned as an outfielder and third baseman.
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MLB Career
Benitez got his first break in the MLB in 1990 when the Baltimore Orioles signed him as a free agent. He made his debut in 1994, but his rookie year in 1995 was challenging, with a 5.65 ERA and inconsistent postseason performance.
His potential began to show in 1998 when he earned a 3.82 ERA and 22 saves in 71 games. The turning point came in 1997 when he excelled in the setup role for Orioles' closer Randy Myers, helping the Orioles become AL East champions. He was traded to the New York Mets in 1999 and initially served as a setup man for John Franco. Benitez became the full-time closer after Franco’s mid-season injury and saved 139 games during his time with the Mets.
In 2004, Benitez joined the Florida Marlins, accepting a pay cut, but it proved to be the best decision of his career. He saved 47 games with a 1.29 ERA, including an impressive 30-inning scoreless streak.
Benitez became a free agent at the end of the season and signed a three-year, $21 million contract with the San Francisco Giants. His last MLB appearance was with the Toronto Blue Jays on June 6, 2008.
Contracts and Career Earnings
Throughout his career, Benitez signed multiple substantial contracts. His most lucrative deal came in 2003 with a one-year, $6.75 million contract with the Mets. After being traded to the Florida Marlins, he signed another contract worth $3.5 million. Over his 15-year career, Benitez earned an estimated $40 million from his MLB contracts.
