| Net Worth | Salary | Birthdate | Birthplace | Gender | Height | Profession | Nationality |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $40 million | $76.8 million (career earnings) | June 16, 1977 | Irving, Texas | Male | 6 ft 5 in | Retired baseball player | American |
What is Kerry Wood’s Net Worth?
Kerry Wood, a retired American baseball player, currently has a net worth of $40 million. Throughout his career, he played for the Chicago Cubs, Cleveland Indians, and New York Yankees in Major League Baseball. Wood’s net worth is a result of his successful baseball career and various endorsements and business ventures.
Highlights
Kerry Wood achieved an iconic feat in his rookie year, striking out 20 batters in a one-hit shutout against the Houston Astros. This performance is widely regarded as one of the greatest pitching performances in baseball history. Wood was named the 1998 National League Rookie of the Year and was a two-time All-Star (2003, 2008). He holds several MLB strikeout records and had a successful career despite battling injuries, including undergoing Tommy John surgery.
Early Life
Kerry Lee Wood was born on June 16, 1977, in Irving, Texas. He attended MacArthur High School, where he played baseball for three years. He later transferred to Grand Prairie High School for his final season. Wood was originally committed to play college baseball at McLennan Community College, but he was drafted as the fourth overall selection in the 1995 MLB Draft by the Chicago Cubs.
Career
Wood spent three years in the minor leagues before making his MLB debut in April 1998. His standout moment came in the same year when he achieved 20 strikeouts in a single game against the Houston Astros. Despite dealing with injuries throughout his career, Wood recorded over 200 strikeouts in four out of his first five seasons. He played for the Cleveland Indians and New York Yankees before returning for a second stint with the Cubs. Wood retired on May 18, 2012, after 14 seasons in professional baseball.
Throughout his career, Wood achieved an 86-75 record, a 3.67 ERA, 1,582 strikeouts, and 63 saves. He became the fastest player in history to reach 1,000 strikeouts in terms of appearances and innings pitched.
Personal Life
Kerry Wood is married to Sarah Pates, and the couple has a son named Justin and two daughters named Katie and Charlotte. They resided in Chicago’s Old Town neighborhood until 2008. Wood also hosted a celebrity bowling tournament called Kerry Wood’s Strike Zone, which raised over $2 million for charity.
Net Worth Over Time
Kerry Wood’s net worth has grown steadily over time due to his successful baseball career and various business ventures. Starting with his rookie contract, through his multiple team contracts, and endorsements, Wood accumulated significant wealth. Additionally, his involvement in charitable events and fundraisers has contributed to his net worth.
Components of Net Worth
Wood’s net worth consists of various components, including his career earnings, endorsements, investments, and real estate holdings. Throughout his MLB career, he earned $76.8 million in salary alone. Apart from baseball, his endorsements and business ventures have added to his wealth. Wood has also invested in real estate properties, including a home in Winnetka, Illinois, which was listed for sale in 2019.
Overall, Kerry Wood’s net worth reflects his successful baseball career, endorsements, and smart financial decisions. Despite retiring from professional baseball, Wood continues to be financially secure and actively contributes to charitable causes.