Paul Sewald has emerged as one of Major League Baseball’s most underrated but highly effective relief pitchers in recent years. Known for his clutch performance in high-leverage situations, Sewald’s career has gone from a modest beginning to one filled with postseason glory and statistical excellence.
In this detailed profile, we dive deep into Paul Sewald’s net worth, contract details, Fangraphs analytics, current stats, and age-related performance trends. Whether you’re a die-hard Diamondbacks fan or a fantasy baseball enthusiast, this guide will give you everything you need to know about one of MLB’s top closers.
Early Life and Background
Full Name: Paul Stanton Sewald
Born: May 26, 1990
Birthplace: Las Vegas, Nevada
Age: 35 (as of 2025)
Paul Sewald attended Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas and later played college baseball at the University of San Diego. Drafted in the 10th round by the New York Mets in 2012, Sewald spent years refining his craft in the minors before making his MLB debut in 2017.
MLB Career Overview
Debut and Mets Struggles
Sewald made his MLB debut with the New York Mets on April 8, 2017. Though he had good strikeout numbers, he struggled with consistency and command, posting a 5.55 ERA over four seasons in New York.
Breakout with Seattle Mariners
Everything changed in 2021 when Sewald joined the Seattle Mariners. He reinvented his pitching style, adding deception to his fastball-slider combo, and quickly became one of the league’s premier relievers.
From 2021 to 2023, Sewald posted:
-
ERA: 2.88
-
WHIP: 0.97
-
K/9: 12.5
-
Saves: 62
2023 Trade to Arizona Diamondbacks
At the 2023 trade deadline, Sewald was traded to the Arizona Diamondbacks. He became the team’s go-to closer and played a crucial role in their deep postseason run, including helping them reach the 2023 World Series.
Paul Sewald’s Contract Details (2025)
As of 2025, Paul Sewald is on a 1-year, $7.7 million contract with the Arizona Diamondbacks, avoiding arbitration.
Contract Breakdown:
-
Team: Arizona Diamondbacks
-
Type: Arbitration-eligible (signed a 1-year deal)
-
2025 Salary: $7.7 million
-
Free Agent: 2026
His salary marks a significant rise from previous years, reflecting his value as one of MLB’s most reliable late-inning pitchers.
Paul Sewald Net Worth (2025)
Paul Sewald’s estimated net worth in 2025 is approximately $10 million.
Sources of Income:
-
MLB Contracts
-
Performance Bonuses
-
Endorsements and Sponsorships
While not among the highest-paid players in MLB, Sewald’s earnings reflect his growing reputation and consistent performance since 2021.
Advanced Metrics (Fangraphs Analysis)
According to Fangraphs, Paul Sewald’s analytical stats highlight just how dominant he has become.
Key Fangraphs Stats (2021–2024):
| Year | K/9 | BB/9 | ERA | FIP | WAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | 14.5 | 3.2 | 3.06 | 2.96 | 1.8 |
| 2022 | 12.1 | 2.5 | 2.67 | 3.88 | 1.2 |
| 2023 | 11.4 | 2.7 | 3.12 | 3.38 | 1.1 |
| 2024 | 10.7 | 2.4 | 2.91 | 3.11 | 1.4 |
Notable Metrics:
-
xFIP: Sewald consistently outperforms his peripherals, showing elite pitch execution.
-
SwStr% (Swinging Strike Rate): Over 15%, placing him in the top echelon of MLB relievers.
-
Spin Rate: His fastball spin rate is well above average, helping generate deception.
Fangraphs data shows Sewald’s transformation from a journeyman reliever into a legitimate closing option backed by analytical consistency.
2025 Season Stats (Updated Through July)
As of July 31, 2025, Paul Sewald’s season stats for the Diamondbacks:
-
Games: 44
-
Saves: 24
-
ERA: 2.85
-
WHIP: 0.95
-
Strikeouts: 55
-
Innings Pitched: 44.1
He remains a lockdown closer and one of the most important pieces in the D-backs’ bullpen.
Pitch Arsenal
Paul Sewald relies primarily on two elite pitches:
1. Four-Seam Fastball
-
Velocity: 91-94 MPH
-
Spin Rate: High
-
Usage: 55-60%
-
Effectiveness: Elevated fastballs generate swing-and-miss up in the zone.
2. Slider
-
Velocity: 82-85 MPH
-
Break: Sharp with late movement
-
Usage: 35-40%
-
Effectiveness: Key weapon against right-handed batters
His unique arm slot and delivery mechanics add deception, making both pitches tough to pick up.
Age and Career Longevity
At 35 years old, Sewald is defying age expectations for relievers. While most closers decline in their mid-30s, his stats suggest he’s still at the top of his game.
Longevity Outlook:
-
Minimal injury history
-
Excellent mechanics
-
Adaptable pitching strategy
If he maintains his current form, Sewald could remain a valuable bullpen asset well into his late 30s.
Career Highlights
-
2023 World Series Appearance (Arizona Diamondbacks)
-
2021 Breakout Season with Seattle Mariners
-
Over 90 career saves by 2025
-
Career WAR > 5.0 by 2025 (per Fangraphs)
-
Top-10 reliever in K/9 since 2021
Fantasy Baseball Value
Sewald is a favorite among fantasy baseball managers due to his:
-
High save totals
-
Excellent strikeout numbers
-
Low WHIP and ERA
-
Role stability as a closer
In standard 5×5 roto leagues, he’s consistently ranked in the top 10 among relievers.
Personal Life and Character
Paul Sewald is married to Mackenzie Sewald, and they have a daughter together. He’s known for his calm demeanor, leadership in the clubhouse, and resilience through career ups and downs.
Off the field, Sewald is active in charitable events and community outreach, especially in Seattle and Phoenix.
Comparison to Other Elite Closers
| Pitcher | Age | ERA (2021–2025) | Saves | WHIP | WAR |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paul Sewald | 35 | 2.91 | 90+ | 0.98 | 5.1 |
| Emmanuel Clase | 27 | 2.45 | 130+ | 1.01 | 6.7 |
| Josh Hader | 31 | 2.70 | 120+ | 1.03 | 6.0 |
| Ryan Helsley | 30 | 3.10 | 85+ | 1.00 | 4.5 |
Sewald holds his own with the best, despite being a late bloomer.
Conclusion
Paul Sewald’s career is a blueprint for perseverance, reinvention, and excellence. From being a struggling reliever with the Mets to a postseason hero with the Diamondbacks, his journey is nothing short of inspiring.
With elite stats, advanced analytics backing his success, and a stable contract situation, Sewald continues to be one of MLB’s top-tier closers in 2025. Fans and analysts alike are watching to see how far he can carry the Diamondbacks this season—and beyond.