Juan Soto agrees to record US$765M contract with Mets: AP
The baseball world was rocked today with the news that star outfielder Juan Soto has signed a historic contract with the New York Mets. The deal, worth a staggering $765 million over 15 years, could potentially reach $805 million, making it the largest pact in team sports history. This groundbreaking agreement was first reported by the New York Post and has sent shockwaves throughout the baseball community.
Soto’s decision to join the Mets comes after the team outbid their crosstown rivals, the New York Yankees, who were also vying for his services. The 26-year-old outfielder will have the option to opt out of the contract after the 2029 season if the Mets do not increase the average annual value by $4 million. In addition to his massive salary, Soto will receive a $75 million signing bonus upon approval by the commissioner’s office.
This deal surpasses all previous contracts in Major League Baseball history, including Shohei Ohtani’s $700 million, 10-year deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Unlike Ohtani’s contract, which included deferred payments, Soto’s agreement does not include any deferred money, making his average annual value an unprecedented $51 million.
Soto’s impressive resume includes four All-Star appearances and a World Series championship with the Washington Nationals in 2019. He turned down a $440 million, 15-year offer from the Nationals in 2022 before being traded to the San Diego Padres. Following a brief stint with the Padres, Soto was traded to the Yankees in 2023 and played a key role in helping the team reach the World Series.
With a career batting average of .285, 201 home runs, 592 RBIs, and 769 walks, Soto is considered one of the top players in the game today. His combination of power, patience at the plate, and defensive prowess makes him a valuable asset to any team.
The Mets’ acquisition of Soto is a major coup for the franchise and instantly makes them a contender in the National League. Fans can look forward to watching Soto’s continued success as he takes the field in the iconic blue and orange colors of the Mets.
Overall, Juan Soto’s record-breaking contract with the New York Mets is a game-changer for the baseball world and solidifies his status as one of the premier players in the sport.