Dustin May – Los Angeles Dodgers Biography, Contract, Net Worth Information

Dustin May, often called “Big Red” because of his height and unmistakable red hair, has become one of the most recognizable pitchers for the Los Angeles Dodgers. You can’t miss him on the mound, and his lively fastball and sharp slider have given hitters plenty of headaches. Right now, May’s under a one-year deal worth $2,135,000 with the Dodgers for 2024, although he started the year on the 60-day injured list while he works his way back from injury.

May’s path through pro baseball has had its share of ups and downs. He flashed real talent early, but injuries—especially Tommy John surgery—have slowed him down. Still, his net worth sits around $4.38 million, a mix of his salary and some likely endorsement money.

Even with the setbacks, folks around the league still see a bright future for May. Scouts and analysts love his pitch movement and velocity, and they think he could become a top starter if he stays healthy. His contract situation is definitely one to watch as he tries to show he can stay on the field and pitch consistently for the Dodgers.

Early Life and Background

Dustin May’s baseball story starts in his hometown, where he built his pitching skills from a young age. That red hair and tall frame? Yeah, those became his trademarks long before he ever made it to the big leagues.

Childhood and Family

Dustin Jake May was born on September 6, 1997 in Justin, Texas. Growing up north of Fort Worth, he fell in love with baseball early—no surprise, considering Texas is crazy about the sport and the weather lets you play almost year-round.

May’s family always had his back, cheering him on and helping him chase his baseball dreams. He stood out on those Texas youth fields, a lanky kid with a mop of red hair—hence “Big Red,” a nickname that stuck all the way to the majors.

Amateur Baseball Career

May went to Northwest High School in Justin, Texas, and there he really started to shine as a pitcher. Each year, his fastball got a little hotter and his control a bit sharper.

By his senior year, May was throwing in the mid-90s, grabbing the attention of college coaches and pro scouts. At 6’6″ with plenty of room to grow, he looked like a pitcher built for the big leagues.

He committed to play at Texas Tech University, a solid backup plan as he entered the MLB draft. But honestly, after his senior season, everyone knew he was one of Texas’s top pitching prospects.

Draft into MLB

The Los Angeles Dodgers picked Dustin May in the third round (101st overall) of the 2016 MLB Draft. The Dodgers saw huge potential in his size, raw stuff, and smooth pitching motion.

May had a big decision to make—go to college or jump straight into pro ball. In the end, he signed with the Dodgers for a bonus a bit above slot value, skipping college and diving right into the minors.

That choice kicked off his pro career. The Dodgers’ player development system got to work, and within just a few years, May went from a promising high school arm to one of the most talked-about pitching prospects in baseball.

Professional Career

Dustin May’s time with the Dodgers has been a mix of development, flashes of brilliance, and some tough injury luck. His journey’s been anything but boring.

MLB Debut and Rookie Achievements

May made his MLB debut for the Dodgers on August 2, 2019, and people noticed right away—both for his wild hair and his nasty sinker. As a rookie, he put up a 3.63 ERA in 14 games. Not bad for a debut season.

He became a key arm for the Dodgers during the weird, shortened 2020 season. He broke camp with the team and helped them in their World Series run. He didn’t win Rookie of the Year, but his performance was a big reason the Dodgers finally took home a title after decades of waiting.

Those first seasons put him on the map as one of the game’s most exciting young pitchers, especially with a sinker that hit 98-99 mph and a cutter that just made hitters look silly.

Key Seasons With The Dodgers

May started 2021 on fire, but then a major injury hit. After a 2.74 ERA in his first five starts, he needed Tommy John surgery and missed the rest of the year and most of 2022.

When he returned to the Dodgers’ rotation, he showed flashes of his old form, but staying consistent was tough. In 2023, he kept working through recovery and made only a handful of appearances as the team kept a close eye on his workload.

For 2024, May and the Dodgers agreed on a $2.135 million contract through arbitration. But again, he started the year on the 60-day IL, still fighting through the injury bug.

The Dodgers haven’t given up on him, though. They clearly believe in his upside and keep working to help him get back to his best.

Notable Teammates and Relationships

Through his years with the Dodgers, Dustin May has built some strong connections with both stars and mentors. Those relationships have played a big role in his growth as a pitcher.

Partnerships With Star Players

May’s been lucky to pitch alongside legends like Clayton Kershaw, whose Hall of Fame resume speaks for itself. Kershaw has given May plenty of advice—on everything from pitch sequencing to keeping his mechanics clean.

When he’s healthy, May’s joined a rotation with Walker Buehler and Julio Urías, forming a young, electric group that most teams would envy. Their friendly competition has pushed all of them to be better.

Since Shohei Ohtani joined the Dodgers, he and May have bonded, especially since both have dealt with Tommy John surgery and all the rehab that comes with it.

Influences and Mentors

Blake Treinen has been a key mentor for May, especially when it comes to breaking pitches. Treinen’s tips became even more important during May’s recovery from elbow surgery.

“Blake helped me understand how to maximize my movement without sacrificing velocity,” May said after a game once—not something you forget.

Pitching coach Mark Prior has worked closely with May on his mechanics, helping him harness his natural movement and develop a wicked curveball.

Guys like Justin Turner and David Price also helped May early on, showing him how to handle the pressure of pitching for a team where everyone expects to win.

Career Challenges and Comebacks

Dustin May’s career hasn’t exactly been smooth sailing. He’s faced big injuries and tough stretches, but he’s shown a lot of grit fighting his way back.

Recovery From Tommy John Surgery

In May 2021, everything changed for May when he blew out his right elbow and needed Tommy John surgery. That ended his season and kept him off the mound well into 2022.

Rehab was long and exhausting. May worked day in and day out with the Dodgers’ medical staff to rebuild strength and get his arm back in shape. The process usually takes 12-18 months, and it’s never easy.

When he finally returned in August 2022, you could see flashes of his old self. The fastball was back in the upper-90s, but getting his consistency back took some time as he adjusted to his new mechanics.

Handling Team Setbacks

Injuries weren’t the only challenge—playing for the Dodgers means dealing with sky-high expectations every year. Every outing gets picked apart, and the pressure’s always on.

In 2023, more health issues popped up, and May missed more time. These setbacks stung, especially as the Dodgers fought for another playoff run and he had to watch from the dugout.

The 2024 season started with May still on the 60-day IL, but the Dodgers showed faith by agreeing to a $2.135 million contract. May stayed focused on his rehab, supporting his teammates and keeping his eye on a return.

Current Contract and Salary

Dustin May’s contract shows both his potential and the risks that come with his injury history. Despite the setbacks, his salary has climbed each year with the Dodgers.

Latest Contract Details

May is currently on a one-year deal with the Dodgers for $2.135 million in 2024, up from $1.675 million last year.

He didn’t get a signing bonus this time around, but his net worth is estimated at $4.38 million, thanks to his career earnings so far.

May started 2024 on the 60-day IL. He can’t help the team on the field yet, but his salary keeps coming in.

Arbitration and Extensions

May and the Dodgers worked out his current salary through arbitration, avoiding a hearing. He’s still under team control for a few more years before he hits free agency.

The Dodgers haven’t offered a long-term deal, probably because of all the injury questions. With Tommy John surgery in 2021 and more arm trouble since, it’s tough for the team to commit big money over multiple years.

Still, they clearly value what he brings when healthy. His fastball and breaking stuff make him a real weapon if he can stay on the mound.

Net Worth and Financial Overview

Dustin May has built up a solid financial base during his time with the Los Angeles Dodgers. His net worth comes from his baseball salary, some endorsements, and a few investments here and there.

Earnings and Salary Breakdown

May’s current salary is $2,135,000 for the 2023 season with the Dodgers. That’s a nice jump compared to earlier years as he keeps working his way up as an MLB pitcher.

His estimated net worth is about $4,381,463, mostly from his contracts. Here’s a quick look at how his salary has grown:

Looking ahead, if May stays healthy and performs, his salary could keep climbing as he gets closer to free agency. There’s a lot riding on his next few seasons, both for his career and his bank account.

Endorsements and Partnerships

Dustin May isn’t splashed across national ad campaigns like some MLB superstars, but he’s started carving out a commercial presence of his own. With that unmistakable red hair and an electric pitching style, it’s no wonder brands have taken notice.

So far, his endorsement deals have stayed pretty low-key compared to the league’s biggest names. You’ll spot him in a few regional ads and the occasional social media campaign, mostly hawking baseball gear and athletic apparel.

These sponsorships add a little extra to his MLB salary, but honestly, they make up a small slice of his income. If he keeps shoving on the mound, though, those endorsement offers will probably start rolling in faster.

Investments and Assets

May keeps his investment moves mostly under wraps. Like a lot of pro athletes, he probably relies on financial advisors to help stretch those baseball paychecks and plan for life after the game.

Real estate usually ends up as a big piece of the pie for players. While there aren’t any public records of specific homes, it’s a safe bet he’s picked up property in California or back home in Texas.

Plenty of MLB guys dabble in business ventures, stocks, or side hustles. With injuries always lurking, it just makes sense for someone like May—who’s already battled through a few setbacks—to plan carefully.

How he bounces back from injuries and lands future MLB contracts will determine a lot about his financial future.

Awards and Honors

Dustin May’s career has already brought him some recognition, both for his pitching and his role in team success. The flaming fastball and that wild red hair have made him hard to miss, even with the injuries he’s faced.

MLB Accolades

May’s biggest team achievement so far came in 2020 when he helped the Los Angeles Dodgers win the World Series. That championship run was a huge moment for him—joining the ranks of World Series winners is no small feat.

He’s gotten attention for his pitching, too. Sure, he hasn’t snagged a Cy Young or MVP yet, but as he keeps developing that power arm, people are definitely watching.

MLB’s “Pitching Ninja” features love to highlight his 99+ mph sinker, and honestly, it’s the kind of pitch that leaves hitters shaking their heads.

Noteworthy Milestones

May debuted in the big leagues on August 2, 2019, kicking off his journey with the Dodgers. His rookie year showed flashes of what he could do, even if he didn’t grab Rookie of the Year.

He’s had some memorable games, like striking out 10 Giants in April 2021—just before Tommy John surgery put him on the shelf.

Coming back from that surgery in 2022 was a big deal, too. It showed he’s not just talented, but tough enough to fight through setbacks.

His current contract—over $2 million a year—shows the Dodgers still believe in what he brings, even with the injury history.

Off-Field Activities and Personal Interests

Away from the mound, Dustin May keeps things pretty well-rounded. He’s got interests and pursuits that go beyond just baseball, giving a glimpse of who he is when he’s not in uniform.

Charity Work and Community Involvement

May makes it a point to give back, especially through the Dodgers Foundation. While in LA, he regularly showed up at community events, with a special focus on youth baseball in neighborhoods that don’t always get the best resources.

In 2023, he helped start a pitching clinic for kids from low-income areas—offering real coaching to young players who might not otherwise get that chance. The program’s grown since then, which is pretty cool.

He’s also pitched in at fundraisers for children’s hospitals in both LA and Texas. You won’t see him making a big show of it, but he keeps showing up and helping out.

Hobbies and Public Appearances

During rehab stints, May often dives into video games—especially sports sims and strategy titles. Sometimes he streams, giving fans a peek at his laid-back side.

His height and that fiery hair make him stand out, and he’s leaned into it with a few brand partnerships. On social media, he’s not super active, but you’ll catch glimpses of him fishing or enjoying the outdoors in the off-season.

He’s also into cars—big time. He’s been seen at car shows around Southern California, and word is, he’s got a few custom rides in his garage.

Despite his growing net worth, May keeps most of his personal life under wraps. Now and then, he’ll pop up at an NBA game or another sporting event if he’s got the time.

In the Media and Public Image

With that wild red hair and a fastball that’s just as eye-catching, Dustin May has become a familiar face even beyond baseball circles. Reporters and fans have tracked his ups and downs, especially as he’s fought through injuries.

Press Coverage and News Stories

May’s journey with the Dodgers gets plenty of attention from sports media, especially after his Tommy John surgery and the road back. MLB Trade Rumors broke down his $2.135 million deal with the Dodgers, even as he worked his way back from injury.

Outlets like Yahoo Sports and AOL have kept tabs on his rehab, setbacks, and that unique delivery. When he first popped up as a prospect, his 100+ mph fastball made headlines, and analysts started comparing him to some pretty big names.

His second UCL injury in April 2023 really set off a wave of speculation—doctors, fans, and writers all weighing in on what it might mean for his future.

Social Media Presence

May keeps his social media presence pretty chill. His Instagram offers the occasional update on rehab or a behind-the-scenes look, but he’s not posting constantly.

Baseball highlight accounts love to show off his pitching mechanics—especially that sinker that seems to defy physics. That’s helped cement his “Gingergaard” nickname, a nod to both his hair and a certain other big-league pitcher.

During recovery, he’s used social media to mark big moments but stays private about the nitty-gritty details of his health and life off the field.

Potential Future and Career Outlook

Dustin May’s next few years could go in several directions, depending on how he recovers and what teams are willing to take a chance. Teams still get excited about his stuff, even with the setbacks.

Free Agency Possibilities

Right now, May’s salary sits at $2,135,000 with the Dodgers, but free agency could get interesting. Once this one-year deal is up, teams like the Arizona Diamondbacks or Texas Rangers—always looking for arms—might come calling.

Both clubs have gambled on talented pitchers with injury histories before. The Diamondbacks, especially, could see May as a possible anchor if he stays healthy.

Some folks have compared his situation to other players who bounced back from injuries and landed big deals—think Carlos Correa or Aaron Judge, who both navigated tricky markets after health scares.

If MLB doors close, leagues like the KBO overseas might offer a way to rebuild value and get back on track.

Predicted Career Path

May’s future probably goes one of two ways: he either sticks with the Dodgers on short-term deals to prove himself again, or he takes a shot with a new team. His career net worth of $4,381,463 gives him some breathing room while he figures it out.

Everything hinges on his health. If he can stay on the field, that high-90s fastball and nasty breaking stuff could make him a mid-rotation guy—or maybe even an ace.

It wouldn’t be surprising to see him sign a two-year, incentive-heavy contract with LA or another contender that needs pitching depth. That way, teams aren’t risking too much, and May gets a shot to show what he can do.

Best-case scenario? He follows in the footsteps of other power arms who came back from injuries and turned into reliable starters making $15-20 million a year.