Zack Littell: Trade | Contract | Net Worth | Stats | Salary
Zack Littell has carved out a solid place for himself in Major League Baseball with a career marked by resilience, adaptation, and consistent growth. From early struggles to recent success, his journey is one that many young pitchers can learn from. In this comprehensive article, we delve into Zack Littell’s trade history, current contract status, estimated net worth, updated stats, and salary insights.
Who is Zack Littell?
Zack Littell is a professional baseball pitcher known for his control, pitch versatility, and ability to transition between starting and relief roles. Born on October 5, 1995, in Mebane, North Carolina, Littell was drafted by the Seattle Mariners in the 11th round of the 2013 MLB Draft. Over the years, he’s played for several MLB teams, including the Minnesota Twins, San Francisco Giants, Boston Red Sox, and Tampa Bay Rays.
Zack Littell Trade History
Early Career Moves
Littell’s professional journey began in the Mariners’ minor league system. However, his first big trade came in 2017, when he was traded to the New York Yankees in a deal involving James Pazos.
Shortly afterward, Littell was traded again in 2017, this time to the Minnesota Twins as part of a deal that sent Jaime Garcia to New York. This trade proved to be a pivotal moment, giving Littell his first real opportunity in the big leagues.
Move to the Giants
In 2021, after his release from the Twins, Littell signed a minor league contract with the San Francisco Giants. His performance out of the bullpen helped solidify the Giants’ pitching staff during a competitive season, and he became a reliable option for middle relief.
Tampa Bay Rays and Latest Trade
The most notable recent trade involving Zack Littell came in 2023, when the Boston Red Sox traded him to the Tampa Bay Rays for cash considerations. Initially struggling, Littell found new life with the Rays, who converted him into a starter—a rare and surprising move that paid off.
This trade revitalized Littell’s MLB career and showcased his ability to evolve. Under the Rays’ pitching development system, Littell improved his ERA and developed new pitch sequencing strategies that have helped him become a dependable rotation piece.
Zack Littell Contract Details (2025)
As of the 2025 MLB season, Zack Littell is playing under a one-year contract with the Tampa Bay Rays. His deal, signed during the 2024 offseason, is worth $2.1 million, avoiding arbitration.
Here’s a breakdown of his most recent contracts:
| Year | Team | Contract Type | Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | San Francisco Giants | Minor League | $570,500 |
| 2023 | Tampa Bay Rays | Arbitration | $850,000 |
| 2024 | Tampa Bay Rays | Arbitration | $2.1 million |
Zack Littell will be eligible for free agency after the 2025 season unless he signs an extension. Given his solid performance as a starter, especially in the second half of 2024, he could be in line for a multi-year deal.
Zack Littell Salary Insights
2025 Salary
In 2025, Littell is earning a base salary of $2.1 million. This figure represents a significant jump from previous seasons and is reflective of his new role in the Rays’ starting rotation.
Career Earnings
As of 2025, Zack Littell has earned an estimated $5.2 million over his MLB career, which includes stints with several organizations and both minor and major league salaries.
Here is a breakdown of his salary progression:
| Season | Team | Salary |
|---|---|---|
| 2018 | Minnesota Twins | $545,000 |
| 2019 | Minnesota Twins | $555,000 |
| 2021 | San Francisco Giants | $570,500 |
| 2023 | Tampa Bay Rays | $850,000 |
| 2024 | Tampa Bay Rays | $2.1 million |
His earnings trajectory shows that while Littell did not command large salaries early in his career, he has gradually become more financially secure thanks to consistent on-field performance.
Zack Littell Stats Overview
Zack Littell’s MLB stats have evolved over time as he transitioned from bullpen duty to starting pitcher.
Career MLB Stats (As of 2025 Season)
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 172 |
| Games Started | 35 |
| Wins-Losses | 18-16 |
| ERA (Earned Run Avg) | 3.93 |
| Innings Pitched | 327.2 |
| Strikeouts | 287 |
| WHIP | 1.21 |
2024 Season Stats (as Starter for Rays)
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Games Started | 22 |
| Wins-Losses | 10-7 |
| ERA | 3.67 |
| Strikeouts | 115 |
| Innings Pitched | 138.0 |
In 2024, Littell showcased an impressive walk rate and increased his ground ball percentage. This, combined with his calm demeanor on the mound, made him a reliable back-end rotation arm for the Rays.
Pitching Style and Strengths
Zack Littell is not a flamethrower but relies on pitch placement and changing speeds. His pitch mix typically includes:
- Four-seam fastball (92-94 mph)
- Slider
- Cutter
- Sinker
- Changeup
Under the Rays’ pitching coaching staff, Littell has improved pitch sequencing and began using his sinker more effectively to induce ground balls.
Net Worth of Zack Littell
Estimated Net Worth (2025)
As of 2025, Zack Littell’s estimated net worth is $3 million. This includes his MLB earnings, minor endorsements, and potential investments.
Although not one of the highest-paid players in the league, Littell’s growing salary and increasing reliability as a pitcher make his future earning potential quite promising.
Sources of Income
- MLB Salary: Primary source of income.
- Endorsements: Limited but includes regional sportswear and gear partnerships.
- Investments: No public information, but like many athletes, likely involved in personal finance planning or real estate.
Zack Littell’s Role with the Tampa Bay Rays
After a successful season as a full-time starter in 2024, Littell is expected to begin the 2025 MLB season in the Rays’ rotation, likely as their No. 3 or No. 4 starter. His versatility and ability to pitch deep into games give the Rays flexibility, especially in injury-prone months.
Fantasy Baseball Outlook
Zack Littell is becoming a solid streaming option in fantasy baseball, especially in deeper leagues. His low walk rate and improved strikeout-to-walk ratio are positives, while his ability to pitch into the sixth inning regularly adds value in points leagues.
2025 Fantasy Projection (Rotisserie Leagues):
- Wins: 11
- ERA: 3.75
- WHIP: 1.18
- Strikeouts: 130
- Innings: 150
What’s Next for Zack Littell?
As Littell enters a crucial season in 2025, a strong performance could set him up for his first multi-year free-agent contract. If he maintains his current form, he may become one of the more sought-after mid-tier pitchers on the market.
Conclusion
Zack Littell’s MLB journey is a testament to perseverance, development, and adaptability. From being traded multiple times to becoming a dependable starter with the Tampa Bay Rays, his career trajectory continues to rise. With his 2025 contract and salary reflecting increased value, and his stats showcasing real growth, Littell may be poised for even greater success moving forward.
Whether you’re a baseball fan, a fantasy manager, or simply interested in MLB player economics, Zack Littell’s profile is one worth following in the seasons to come.
FAQs
What team does Zack Littell play for in 2025?
Zack Littell plays for the Tampa Bay Rays in the 2025 MLB season.
What is Zack Littell’s salary in 2025?
He is earning $2.1 million in 2025 under a one-year contract with the Rays.
How old is Zack Littell?
As of 2025, Zack Littell is 29 years old, born on October 5, 1995.
What is Zack Littell’s net worth?
His estimated net worth is around $3 million.
Is Zack Littell a starter or reliever?
In recent seasons, particularly with the Rays, Littell has transitioned into a starting pitcher.
Has Zack Littell been traded?
Yes, he has been traded multiple times, including trades involving the Yankees, Twins, and Red Sox before settling with the Rays.
