Average 2009 salaries by position, as compiled by the Major League Baseball Players Association. Deferred income without interest is discounted nine percent per year. Figures include first basemen, second basemen, third basemen, shortstops, catchers and outfielders with 100 or more games at the position; designated hitters with 80 or more games as DHs; starting pitchers with 19 or more starts and relief pitchers with 10 or fewer starts and 25 or more relief appearances:
| Position | Average | Players |
| First base | $7,385,135 | 25 |
| DH | $7,336,833 | 12 |
| Third base | $6,461,916 | 24 |
| Starting pitcher | $4,657,768 | 120 |
| Outfield | $4,582,964 | 79 |
| Shortstop | $4,441,029 | 25 |
| Second base | $4,316,124 | 21 |
| Catcher | $4,066,190 | 18 |
| Relief pitcher | $1,782,084 | 194 |
