Net Worth Ranker
What Is Keith Hernandez’s Net Worth?
Keith Hernandez, a celebrated former Major League Baseball player and current baseball analyst, has accumulated a substantial net worth of $16 million. This financial standing reflects his successful career on the field, followed by his transition into broadcasting and various entertainment ventures.
Keith Hernandez’s Baseball Career Earnings
During his professional baseball career, Keith Hernandez earned approximately $17 million in salary alone. Adjusting for inflation, this sum equates to roughly $40 million in today’s dollars. Hernandez spent considerable time with teams like the St. Louis Cardinals and the New York Mets. He consistently showcased exceptional defensive abilities, earning him 11 consecutive Golden Glove awards, a record for a first baseman. This remarkable defensive prowess, coupled with his hitting productivity, solidified his position as one of the best defensive first basemen in baseball history.
Broadcasting Career and “Seinfeld” Royalties
After retiring from baseball, Keith Hernandez transitioned to a successful broadcasting career. He became a well-known television broadcaster for SportsNet and WPIX, primarily covering Mets games. In addition, he has been a studio analyst for MLB on Fox since 2017. Hernandez gained further recognition through his memorable appearances on the sitcom “Seinfeld.” In 1992, he played a role in a two-part episode titled “The Boyfriend,” which has since become a fan favorite. Royalties from “Seinfeld” continue to provide Hernandez with an income stream. In 2018, he shared a photo of a royalty check he received for his appearance on the show. He revealed that he still earns around $3,000 per year in syndication royalties from “Seinfeld.” These royalties contribute to Keith Hernandez’s Net Worth and highlight his success beyond the baseball field.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Keith Hernandez was born on October 20, 1953, in San Francisco, California. Despite his surname, he is of Castillian Spanish and British heritage. Hernandez grew up in Pacifica and Millbrae, where he attended two high schools and excelled in athletics. Even during his youth, Hernandez showcased exceptional potential as a future baseball star. He played alongside future MLB pitcher Bob McClure. Despite his talent, Hernandez’s coaches noted he was prone to “attitude problems.” A dispute with a coach resulted in him refusing to play during his senior year. However, he overcame this setback and continued his baseball career. Before being drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals, he attended the College of San Mateo and played for the school team.
Minor League and Major League Debut
After being drafted by the Cardinals in 1971, Keith Hernandez made his professional debut in the minor leagues with the Tulsa Oilers. In his first season with the Tulsa Oilers, he posted a .333 batting average and hit five home runs. Hernandez’s batting average consistently improved as he progressed through the minor leagues. In 1974, he made his major league debut with the St. Louis Cardinals against the San Francisco Giants. It quickly became apparent that Hernandez would play a significant role in the team’s future. In 1975, he split his time between the Tulsa Oilers and the Cardinals. While his batting average improved over time, his defensive capabilities were consistently his greatest strength.
Golden Glove Awards and MVP Award
In 1978, Keith Hernandez won the first of his many Golden Glove awards, recognizing his exceptional defensive skills. In 1979, his batting average soared to an impressive .344, leading the league. That year, he shared the National League MVP award with Willie Stargell. This was the first and only time in baseball history that two players received the exact same number of points from the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. From that point forward, Hernandez maintained a batting average above .300. In 1982, he helped the Cardinals win the World Series.
Trade to the Mets and Leadership Role
Keith Hernandez’s time with the Cardinals came to an end due to conflicts with the management staff. Manager Whitey Herzog described him as a “cancer” to the team. Hernandez later admitted that his cocaine use contributed to his dismissal. He even admitted to playing a game while under the influence of the drug. After being traded to the New York Mets, Hernandez reportedly stopped using cocaine. The team was struggling when he arrived, and he vowed to prove his critics wrong and achieve success in New York. He became the team captain and mentored several young players, guiding them toward greater heights. During his time with the Mets, he solidified his reputation as one of the greatest first basemen of all time. Teams felt demoralized when playing against the Mets, particularly due to Hernandez’s exceptional ability to defend against bunts.
Drug Allegations and Suspension
In 1985, Keith Hernandez faced allegations of cocaine abuse. During a drug dealer’s trial in Pittsburgh, Hernandez was one of seven players implicated in the use and distribution of cocaine. He received a one-season suspension. However, the sentence was commuted after he agreed to donate ten percent of his salary to drug abuse programs. Hernandez maintained that he never distributed cocaine and only used it recreationally. In 1986, Hernandez won his second World Series title with the Mets. In 1988, he won his final Golden Glove award. That year, the Mets narrowly missed out on winning another World Series title. It became evident that Hernandez’s career was nearing its end. His batting average declined in the following years, and his contract with the Mets was not extended in 1989. He played one final season with the Cleveland Indians before retiring in 1990 after an injury-ridden year.
Post-Baseball Entertainment Career
Following his retirement from baseball, Keith Hernandez pursued a career in entertainment. He has made appearances in various television shows, including “Seinfeld,” “Law & Order,” and “Ghostwriter.” Additionally, he has appeared in movies such as “The Scout” and “The Yards.” His role in “Seinfeld” remains one of his most memorable contributions to popular culture, adding to his fame and contributing to his Net Worth through royalties.
Keith Hernandez’s Net Worth Composition
Keith Hernandez’s Net Worth is primarily composed of earnings from his baseball career, broadcasting career, and entertainment ventures. His baseball career earnings, adjusted for inflation, represent a significant portion of his wealth. Additionally, his broadcasting career, which includes his roles with SportsNet, WPIX, and MLB on Fox, provides a steady income stream. His appearances on “Seinfeld” and other television shows and movies have also contributed to his financial success. While specific details about his investments and other assets are not publicly available, it is reasonable to assume that he has diversified his holdings to ensure long-term financial security. His ability to transition from a successful baseball career to a prominent broadcasting career has allowed him to maintain a high level of income and further increase his Net Worth.
Summary of Keith Hernandez’s Accomplishments
Keith Hernandez’s accomplishments throughout his career have solidified his place as one of the most respected figures in baseball. His achievements, including five All-Star titles, one MVP award, and two World Series titles, demonstrate his exceptional talent and dedication to the sport. His 11 consecutive Golden Glove awards highlight his unparalleled defensive skills. His transition to broadcasting and his appearances in popular television shows and movies have further expanded his reach and appeal. Hernandez’s ability to maintain relevance and success in various fields has contributed to his impressive Net Worth of $16 million.
