While a big amount , this was less than Robinson made in the off-season . He had a vaudeville tour where he answered pre-set baseball questions , and a speaking tour of the South . In February 1948 , he signed a $ 12,500 contract ( equal to $ today ) with the Dodgers ; while a significant amount , this was less than Robinson made in the off-season from a vaudeville tour , where he answered pre-set baseball questions , and a speaking tour of the South .