Mercedes in Athletics Instructional League in 2012.
Melvin Mercedes was drafted by the Oakland Athletics in the 16th round of the 2012 MLB Draft from the University of Central Florida. Mercedes played seven Minor League seasons, making it all the way to the AAA level in 2018. More recently, he has been playing Independent League baseball in the Atlantic League. Melvin shares our concern with the current MiLB pay structure. We have heard from older players who believe that positive improvements are being made. However, it's opinions like Melvin's that solidify our belief that the MiLB has plenty more room for improvement.
"I didn’t make enough money in the Minor Leagues. My first year, I started at $1,100 a month and everything went up $100 as I went up levels.
I honestly think Minor Leaguers should get treated better financially, guys have kids and wives at a young age and can’t really support their family with the money they make.
In my Minor League career, I saw about 3 guys quit just because they weren’t making enough money to support their family. The key to the Minor League system is to try to get a good signing bonus or have a family that really supports what you do and help you out whenever you need some help."
- Melvin Mercedes