Ryan Kreidler has worked his way up through the Detroit Tigers organization since they picked him in the fourth round (112th overall) of the 2019 MLB Draft out of UCLA.
This Davis, California native made his major league debut on September 2, 2022. That day, he finally checked off a lifelong goal after standing out in the minors.
For the 2025 season, Kreidler is set to make about $800,000, which brings his estimated career earnings through 2025 to $1.72 million and a total net worth of around $1 million. His financial path looks pretty typical for a young big leaguer, moving up from his previous contract of $764,900 to his current salary.
Born on November 12, 1997, this versatile infielder keeps working to sharpen his skills at the highest level. Kreidler’s story—from college standout to MLB player—shows the kind of perseverance it takes to reach the majors. He’s definitely a name to keep an eye on as he tries to carve out a spot in the big leagues.
Early Life and Background
Ryan Michael Kreidler was born on November 12, 1997, in Davis, California.
His early years in Davis, shaped by family support and his experiences in school, set him on the path toward pro baseball.
Family and Upbringing
Kreidler grew up in Davis, a college town tied closely to the University of California system.
Details about his parents aren’t really out there, but it’s clear they backed his athletic pursuits from the start.
Davis gave him plenty of parks and rec facilities to play in. Northern California’s baseball culture is strong, and living near teams like the A’s and Giants probably helped fuel his passion.
The Kreidler family probably made plenty of sacrifices—traveling for tournaments, investing in training—like a lot of families with promising athletes do.
Education and Youth Baseball
Kreidler went through the Davis public schools before heading to UCLA for college ball.
He balanced his schoolwork with a growing commitment to baseball.
In high school, his talent started to really show. He caught the attention of college scouts by developing the skills that would get him noticed.
Like most top prospects, Kreidler probably played on travel teams and hit the showcase circuit while also playing for his school.
He must’ve kept his grades up, since UCLA expects a lot from its student-athletes.
By the time he graduated high school, Kreidler had set himself up for a shot at one of the best college baseball programs around. That move opened the door to pro baseball.
Amateur and Prospect Career
Ryan Kreidler laid the groundwork for his pro career during his amateur years.
He went from high school standout to college competitor at UCLA before the Detroit Tigers organization drafted him.
High School Achievements
Kreidler’s baseball story really got going at Davis High School.
He stood out as a versatile infielder and flashed some impressive defensive skills. His athleticism got college recruiters and pro scouts interested.
During his senior year, Kreidler hit well over .300 and showed he could hit for both contact and power.
His quick hands and range at shortstop made him a defensive standout.
Off the field, he kept up strong grades, showing the kind of discipline that would help him later.
He earned All-Conference honors and helped lead his team to regional success, building a reputation as one of NorCal’s top high school players.
College Baseball
At UCLA, Kreidler kept developing as a shortstop over three seasons with the Bruins.
Defense remained his calling card, but his bat started to turn heads too.
Kreidler’s college stats improved each year.
In 2019, his junior year, he broke out—hitting .300 with 12 home runs and 50 RBIs.
That jump at the plate, paired with his defense, boosted his draft stock.
He helped UCLA reach the NCAA tournament and showed some leadership along the way.
Playing in the tough Pac-12 Conference got him ready for higher-level competition and sped up his growth as a prospect.
Draft and Entry into Professional Baseball
The Detroit Tigers picked Kreidler in the 4th round (112th overall) of the 2019 MLB Draft. They saw his potential as a versatile infielder.
After signing, Kreidler jumped straight into the Tigers’ prospect system, starting at the A-ball level.
He adjusted to wooden bats and better pitching pretty quickly.
Coaches moved him around the infield to add to his versatility.
Scouts pointed out Kreidler’s high baseball IQ and his knack for making adjustments.
The Tigers’ development staff saw him as a rising prospect and liked his work ethic.
By 2021, Kreidler had moved up the Tigers’ minor league ladder and established himself as an intriguing infield prospect with big-league potential.
Professional Career and Achievements
Ryan Kreidler kicked off his pro career when the Detroit Tigers took him in the fourth round of the 2019 MLB Draft.
He’s shown his value as a utility player by handling multiple positions.
Detroit Tigers Tenure
Kreidler made his MLB debut on September 2, 2022, starting his big-league journey with Detroit.
He’s played mostly shortstop and third base, but he’s also spent some time in the outfield. That flexibility is a big plus.
By 2025, Kreidler locked in a $800,000 salary as part of his development with the Tigers.
He’s become a useful piece for Detroit’s roster because he can fill in all over the diamond.
When Tyler Glasnow joined the Dodgers in 2024, Kreidler faced him during interleague play and managed to hold his own against the hard-throwing righty.
Notable Performances
Kreidler has had some standout moments with the Tigers.
His defensive versatility really paid off during a series against the Rays. He tracked down a deep Kevin Kiermaier fly ball that could’ve changed the game.
Against the Dodgers and Clayton Kershaw, Kreidler put together a multi-hit game. That showing against elite pitching helped prove he belongs.
When the Tigers needed to shift their defense, Kreidler stepped up and positioned himself perfectly—especially against lefty power hitters like Sweeney.
Awards and Recognitions
Kreidler hasn’t picked up any major league awards yet, but the Tigers’ coaches have praised his work ethic and adaptability.
His defensive stats have put him among the more efficient utility players in the league.
Baseball analysts who focus on fielding have noticed his impact.
Inside the clubhouse, Kreidler has earned recognition for his leadership and willingness to mentor younger players. The team values his ability to handle multiple spots at a high level.
Contract and Earnings
Ryan Kreidler’s pro baseball journey includes his first MLB contract with the Tigers and earnings that have started to build his financial base.
His income reflects both his contributions on the field and his market value as a pro ballplayer.
MLB Contracts and Salary History
Kreidler is currently under contract with the Tigers, making a salary of $764,900 for the 2025 season.
That’s his base guaranteed amount.
His contract history started when the Tigers called him up from the Toledo Mud Hens in September 2022. That move marked his official entry into MLB.
His career earnings should reach $1.72 million through 2025, showing steady growth since he turned pro in 2019.
So far, Kreidler hasn’t been involved in any big trade deals and has stuck with the Tigers organization.
Bonuses, Incentives, and Endorsements
On top of his base salary, Kreidler’s contract probably includes performance incentives, though the details haven’t been made public.
His signing bonus from draft day is part of his total career earnings and adds to his estimated net worth of $1 million.
Kreidler’s endorsement deals are still in the early stages. Most young players start with equipment deals or local sponsors before landing national brands.
If he keeps growing as a player, his marketability will probably rise.
His earnings so far reflect his status as an up-and-coming MLB talent. There’s a lot of room for his financial picture to grow if he keeps improving his stats and performance.
Net Worth and Financial Insights
Ryan Kreidler has built most of his financial portfolio through his baseball career with the Tigers.
His earnings show where he stands as a rookie in the majors, but there’s potential for a lot more as he moves forward.
Sources of Income
Kreidler’s main income comes from his baseball contract with Detroit.
For 2023-2024, he signed a one-year deal for $764,900, which is typical for early-career MLB players still under team control.
His estimated net worth is $648,164, though that number can shift depending on contracts and bonuses.
Since he made his MLB debut in September 2022, his earning potential is still developing.
He probably has some extra income from:
- Performance bonuses
- Early endorsement deals
- Appearance fees
- Memorabilia signings
Lifestyle and Financial Management
Kreidler keeps things pretty modest, especially when you compare him to MLB veterans who’ve scored those massive nine-figure deals. He’s still young, just trying to carve out his place in the majors, so it makes sense that financial advisors usually tell him to stick to conservative spending and smart investments. That’s the best way to set up long-term security, right?
A lot of rookies like Kreidler end up following the same basic advice:
- Put a good chunk of your earnings into investments.
- Set aside money for emergencies.
- Team up with financial advisors who understand the sports world.
- Start thinking early about what you’ll do after baseball.
His time at UCLA probably helps him out here. That school has a reputation for turning out athletes who handle their money well, both during and after their careers.
Since he grew up in California, that background might shape how he handles real estate and where he lives during the off-season. He balances life between his hometown of Davis, CA, and Detroit when the season’s on.
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