Yankees set record with $218M payroll in 2007

Thursday, January 24th 2008, 4:00 AM

The Yankees did finish first in something last year - spending.

While its streak of AL East titles ended at nine, the Yanks wound up with a record payroll of $218.3 million.

The World Series champion Boston Red Sox were a distant second at $155.4 million, according to information received by clubs from the commissioner's office.

In addition to the largest payroll, the Yankees have the highest revenue in the majors. The Bombers took in $415 million last year, giving about $100 million of it away in the sport's revenue-sharing plan.

Both the Yankees and Mets will receive revenue boosts in 2009, when they move into new stadiums.

The Yankees were set to fall under the $200 million mark last year before signing Roger Clemens, who increased their payroll by $17.4 million. The Yanks are on track to lead the major leagues in payroll again. They have committed $198.6 million to 19 signed players on their 40-man roster. Adding in the midpoints for their three players remaining in arbitration - Chien-Ming Wang, Robinson Cano and Brian Bruney - the total increases to $207.6 million.

The Dodgers were third last season at $125.6 million, followed by the Mets ($120.9 million).

News source：http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/baseball/yankees/2008/01/24/2008-01-24_yankees_set_record_with_218m_payroll_in_.html