A.J. Burnett, born Allan James Burnett on January 3, 1977, in North Little Rock, Arkansas, was a force to be reckoned with on the baseball diamond. Known for his powerful fastball and fiery pitching style, Burnett played 17 seasons in Major League Baseball (MLB), leaving a legacy as one of the most memorable pitchers of his generation. After his retirement from the sport in 2015, he shifted gears, becoming involved in meteorology and public speaking. Burnett’s journey from sports stardom to exploring new career avenues has been a fascinating one, but his impact on baseball remains undeniable.
In 2024, Burnett’s estimated net worth is around $60 million, primarily derived from his successful baseball career, lucrative contracts, and endorsements. While Burnett no longer plays in the majors, his influence continues to resonate in both the world of sports and beyond. In this article, we’ll explore his journey, highlight some key career moments, and catch up on what he’s doing today.
Key Takeaways
- A.J. Burnett had a stellar 17-year MLB career, playing for teams like the Florida Marlins, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Philadelphia Phillies.
- Burnett won a World Series with the New York Yankees in 2009, cementing his place in baseball history.
- His career stats include a 3.99 ERA and over 2,500 strikeouts, showcasing his dominant pitching ability.
- In 2024, Burnett’s net worth is estimated at $60 million, reflecting his successful sports career and endorsements.
- After retiring, Burnett transitioned to meteorology, leveraging his communication skills in the weather industry.
A.J. Burnett’s Rise in Baseball
A.J. Burnett’s MLB career began when he was drafted by the New York Mets in 1995 but was traded to the Florida Marlins, where he made his debut in 1999. Known for his ability to throw a devastating curveball and a fastball that reached the mid-90s, Burnett quickly became a standout pitcher. His career truly took off during his time with the Toronto Blue Jays (2006-2010), where he became a strikeout leader and earned an All-Star selection in 2008.
However, it was his time with the New York Yankees that solidified Burnett’s reputation. In 2009, he played a key role in the Yankees’ World Series victory, finishing with a 2-0 record and a 3.28 ERA in the postseason. Burnett’s performance in the 2009 playoffs, especially in the World Series, will always be remembered by Yankees fans.
A.J. Burnett’s Contract and Earnings
Before the 2009 season, A.J. Burnett signed a five-year, $82.5 million contract with the New York Yankees. This contract was one of the largest ever for a pitcher at the time, reflecting Burnett’s high value in the league. Despite his ups and downs during the contract, including moments of inconsistency, Burnett’s time with the Yankees remains a highlight of his career. His contract played a significant role in boosting his earnings and helped set the stage for his future financial success.
| Key Career Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Debut in MLB | 1999, Florida Marlins |
| Notable Teams | Florida Marlins, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Pirates |
| World Series Win | 2009, New York Yankees |
| Contract with Yankees | Signed 5-year, $82.5 million deal in 2009 |
| Retirement | 2015 |
A.J. Burnett’s Meteorology Career
After retiring from baseball, A.J. Burnett decided to explore a new passion: meteorology. With his larger-than-life personality and strong public speaking skills honed during his years as a professional athlete, Burnett made a successful transition to the world of weather reporting. He became involved in weather analysis and forecasting, using his platform to share insights on weather patterns and their impacts.
Burnett made several appearances on WCVB, a local TV station, where he discussed various weather-related topics. His transition from pitching fastballs to discussing thunderstorms might have seemed like an unusual move, but it showcased his versatility and adaptability. In a 2024 interview, Burnett revealed how he enjoys the challenge of explaining complex meteorological concepts to the public in an accessible way.
A.J. Burnett’s Personal Life and Tattoos
Burnett is also known for his personal style, including his distinctive tattoos, which he often displayed during his playing days. His tattoos represent various milestones in his life and career, giving fans a glimpse into his personality beyond the mound. Burnett’s tattoos have always been a topic of discussion, adding to his rebellious and bold persona.
On the personal front, Burnett has been married to Amanda Burnett for several years. The couple shares children and maintains a relatively private life away from the spotlight. While Burnett’s baseball career was always in the limelight, his family life is something he has kept out of the public eye, valuing privacy as much as his professional success.
A.J. Burnett’s Legacy
While A.J. Burnett’s career had its ups and downs, his legacy in Major League Baseball is one of tenacity and resilience. His ability to strike out batters, lead teams to the postseason, and perform in clutch moments like the 2009 World Series will forever be part of his story. Beyond baseball, Burnett’s shift to meteorology shows his willingness to evolve and embrace new challenges.
A.J. Burnett Now
As of 2024, A.J. Burnett is no longer actively involved in professional baseball. Instead, he focuses on personal projects, community involvement, and his meteorology career. While his exact plans for the future remain private, his net worth and achievements reflect a successful life both in and out of the sport.
FAQ
How old is A.J. Burnett in 2024?
A.J. Burnett was born on January 3, 1977, which makes him 47 years old as of 2024.
What teams did A.J. Burnett play for in his MLB career?
A.J. Burnett played for the Florida Marlins, Toronto Blue Jays, New York Yankees, Pittsburgh Pirates, and Philadelphia Phillies during his 17-year MLB career.
What was A.J. Burnett’s contract with the New York Yankees?
In 2009, A.J. Burnett signed a five-year, $82.5 million contract with the New York Yankees, one of the largest contracts ever given to a pitcher at the time.
What is A.J. Burnett doing now?
Since retiring from baseball in 2015, A.J. Burnett has pursued a career in meteorology, making appearances on WCVB and providing weather analysis. He is also involved in various personal and community projects.
Is A.J. Burnett married?
Yes, A.J. Burnett is married to Amanda Burnett, and the couple has children together.
What is A.J. Burnett’s net worth?
As of 2024, A.J. Burnett’s estimated net worth is around $60 million, largely due to his successful baseball career and endorsements.