You got questions, we've got answers

Quick question - I have always wondered - those non-roster invitees (such as Belhorn I believe), are they paid for their time during spring training? If so, how does that work? Or, are on they "on their own dime" as they go through spring training to try to make the club? Also, things like housing during the spring - - I am sure the veterans take care of their own, but are there dorm-type accomodations for the rookies and non-roster players that they have to pay for?
Thanks again for your work.
Ben, in Muncie, Indiana


Ben sent the question a few days ago. Finally got around to asking assistant GM Bob Miller about it. No, non-roster players don't get paid during spring training. Neither do roster players. They get a per diem, pretty generous one, although it varies player to player. But pay starts when the season begins. Players in camp on big leauge contracts get termination pay if they are released. Players on minor leauge deals done.

Players are on their own as far as housing. The club helps them find it. The Reds don't have any dorm facility. The Pirates, I know, do. Some guys room with buddies in more fortunate financial positions.