All-Star spot means bonus money for Brantley
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) -- Despite missing the All-Star game because of a sprained right wrist, just getting picked was rewarding for Kansas City outfielder Alex Gordon.
Gordon was among 47 of the 81 All-Stars who had bonus provisions in their contracts triggered by their selection for Tuesday night's game at Target Field.
In addition to the $50,000 bonus, Gordon will benefit from an escalator provision in his deal. By making the All-Star team, his 2015 salary and a 2016 player option rise by $500,000 each to $14 million. Gordon's deal, which began in 2012, originally was worth $37.5 million but now guarantees him at least $40.2 million over four years and $54.2 million over five seasons.
Gordon, elected as a reserve by his fellow players, is among 13 of the original 68 All-Stars who have been replaced, either because they were hurt or were starting pitchers who had outings Sunday. He has not played since Wednesday
Four players earned $100,000 All-Star bonuses: Detroit first baseman Miguel Cabrera, Texas third baseman Adrian Beltre, Detroit second baseman Ian Kinsler and Cleveland outfielder Michael Brantley
Baltimore outfielder Adam Jones and Orioles catcher Matt Weiters -- sidelined by season-ending elbow surgery -- earned $75,000 apiece.
Players earned a total of $2,165,000 in bonuses, not including Gordon's escalator. The most popular amount was $50,000, earned by 26 players, and 10 more made $25,000 each.
Three members of the Chicago White Sox had $15,000 provisions: first baseman Jose Abreu, shortstop Alexei Ramirez and left-hander Chris Sale. The smallest bonus, $10,000, was earned by Pittsburgh's Josh Harrison and Tony Watson.