Astros Sign Nolan Ryan: MLBās Highest-Paid Player in History
1979Ā ā TheĀ Houston AstrosĀ signĀ free agentĀ pitcherĀ Nolan Ryan. The formerĀ California AngelsĀ ace and futureĀ Hall of FameĀ member signs a four-year deal worth $4.5 million, making him the highest-paid player in major league history. Ryan also becomes the first player to earn a $1 million annual salary.