Big money, at least back then

Coming off his MVP season in 1972, the spectacular – and, at times, equally enigmatic – Dick Allen signs a three-year contract extension with the Chicago White Sox 52 years ago today.

The deal calls for the first baseman and future Hall of Famer to be paid a then-record $250,000 per season, which in today's money is equivalent to $1.8 million – or $150,000 less than the $1.95 million the White Sox this season will spare part outfielder Michael A. Taylor, a career .235 hitting over 11 seasons.