Blake Snell, known as “Snellzilla,” is an American professional baseball pitcher currently playing for the Los Angeles Dodgers. A left-handed ace, Snell has earned accolades for his dominating performances on the mound and his strategic approach off the field. From winning multiple Cy Young Awards to signing record-breaking contracts, Snell has turned his baseball talent into both fame and fortune.
Quick Facts About Blake Snell
| Full Name | Blake Ashton Snell |
|---|---|
| Nickname | Snellzilla |
| Date of Birth | December 4, 1992 |
| Birthplace | Seattle, Washington, U.S. |
| Height | 6 ft 0 in (183 cm) |
| Batting | Left |
| Throwing | Left |
| Position | Pitcher |
| MLB Debut | April 23, 2016 (Tampa Bay Rays) |
| Current Team | Los Angeles Dodgers (2025–present) |
| Jersey Number | 7 |
| Wife | Haeley Mar |
| Children | 2 sons (2024, 2025) |
| Residence | Lynnwood, Washington |
Early Life and Family
Blake Ashton Snell was born on December 4, 1992, in Seattle, Washington. He grew up training at a facility owned by his father, a former minor league baseball player. Snell attended Shorewood High School in Shoreline, Washington, where he quickly gained attention for his pitching skills. In his senior year, he recorded a 9–0 win–loss record, a 1.00 ERA, and 128 strikeouts in 63 innings, showcasing early signs of a future MLB star.
Growing up, Snell was a fan of the Seattle Mariners, a loyalty that continues to inspire him on and off the field. He earned the nickname “Snellzilla,” originally his older brother’s nickname, and has carried it proudly since age eleven.
Professional Career
Draft and Minor Leagues
Blake Snell was selected in the first round of the 2011 MLB Draft by the Tampa Bay Rays, signing for a $684,000 bonus. He started his professional career with the Gulf Coast Rays, then advanced through the minor league system, including stints with the Princeton Rays, Bowling Green Hot Rods, and Charlotte Stone Crabs.
In 2014, Snell pitched a rain-shortened no-hitter for the Stone Crabs, the first in the franchise’s history. He was named Rays Minor League Pitcher of the Year and later USA Today Minor League Pitcher of the Year in 2015, after compiling a 15–4 record with a 1.41 ERA across three minor league teams.
Tampa Bay Rays (2016–2020)
Snell made his MLB debut on April 23, 2016, against the New York Yankees. His early career was a mix of ups and downs, but by 2018, he had fully arrived, dominating the American League. That year, he:
- Recorded 21 wins and a 1.89 ERA
- Led the league in adjusted ERA+ (219) and batting average against (.178)
- Won the AL Cy Young Award, becoming the second Rays pitcher to earn the honor
Snell continued to perform at a high level, setting multiple records and becoming one of the top left-handed pitchers in the league.
San Diego Padres (2021–2023)
Traded to the San Diego Padres in December 2020, Snell faced challenges with injuries but still posted elite numbers:
- 2023 Season: 14–9 record, 2.25 ERA, 234 strikeouts
- Won his second Cy Young Award, becoming one of the few pitchers to win the award in both leagues
San Francisco Giants (2024)
In March 2024, Snell signed a two-year, $62 million contract with the Giants. He pitched a historic no-hitter on August 2, 2024, striking out 11 batters and allowing only three base runners. Despite injuries limiting some starts, Snell cemented his reputation as a dominant MLB pitcher.
Los Angeles Dodgers (2025–Present)
Snell signed a five-year, $182 million contract with the Dodgers in November 2024, including a $52 million signing bonus and $66 million in deferred salary. The deal, one of the largest for a left-handed pitcher, gave him long-term financial security and flexibility with a limited no-trade clause.
- 2025 Regular Season: 11 starts, 5–4 record, 2.35 ERA, 72 strikeouts
- 2025 Postseason: Multiple double-digit strikeout games, dominating performances in NLDS and NLCS
Career Achievements & Awards
- 2× Cy Young Award (2018, 2023)
- All-Star (2018)
- AL Wins Leader (2018)
- 2× ERA Leader (2018, 2023)
- Pitched no-hitter: August 2, 2024
- All-MLB First Team (2023)
Blake Snell’s Net Worth and Earnings
As of 2025, Blake Snell’s net worth is estimated at $50 million, reflecting his earnings from MLB and endorsements.
Salary Breakdown
| Source | Amount |
|---|---|
| Dodgers 2025 MLB Salary | $64.8 million |
| Endorsements & Appearances | $0.8 million |
| Total Net Worth | ~$50 million |
| Contract Highlights | $182M, including $52M signing bonus + $66M deferred salary |
Snell’s financial strategy focuses on long-term security, with a mix of immediate bonuses, deferred payments, and endorsements with brands like Nike, Jaxxon, and Santo Studio.
Personal Life
Blake Snell lives in Lynnwood, Washington, with his wife Haeley Mar. The couple has two sons, born in June 2024 and August 2025. Known for his strategic thinking both on and off the field, Snell balances family life with the demands of MLB, maintaining peak performance while building wealth for the future.
FAQs About Blake Snell
Q1: What is Blake Snell’s nickname?
A1: Snellzilla
Q2: Which teams has Blake Snell played for?
A2: Tampa Bay Rays, San Diego Padres, San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Dodgers
Q3: How many Cy Young Awards has Blake Snell won?
A3: Two – in 2018 (AL) and 2023 (NL)
Q4: Did Blake Snell pitch a no-hitter?
A4: Yes, on August 2, 2024, against the Cincinnati Reds
Q5: What is Blake Snell’s 2025 net worth?
A5: Approximately $50 million
Blake Snell’s story is one of talent, perseverance, and smart financial planning. From his breakout seasons with the Rays to record-breaking contracts with the Dodgers, Snell continues to dominate on the field while securing his future off it.
