Juan Soto and New York Mets Ink Record-Breaking $765 Million Deal
DALLAS (AP) — In a groundbreaking move for Major League Baseball, star outfielder Juan Soto has signed a historic 15-year contract worth $765 million with the New York Mets, according to a source familiar with the agreement. This landmark deal, which is pending a successful physical, marks the largest and longest contract in MLB history, surpassing Shohei Ohtani’s previous record of $700 million over ten years with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The deal, first reported by the New York Post, sets a new standard in sports contracts. Unlike Ohtani’s agreement, renowned for its $680 million in deferred payments, Soto’s contract reportedly contains no deferred money, a notable aspect given the involvement of Steve Cohen, MLB’s wealthiest owner.
At just 26 years old, Soto stands out as the most accomplished free agent of his age since Alex Rodriguez’s $252 million contract with the Texas Rangers in 2000. Soto’s impressive career began when he debuted with the Washington Nationals at age 19, helping secure a World Series title in 2019 and earning four All-Star selections.
After declining a previous offer of $440 million from Washington, Soto was traded to the San Diego Padres in August 2022. Following the passing of Padres owner Peter Seidler, Soto was traded to the Yankees in December 2023. He played a pivotal role in leading New York to its first World Series appearance since 2009, finishing the season with strong stats: a .288 batting average, 41 homers, and 109 RBIs.
With a career total of 201 homers, 592 RBIs, and 769 walks over seven seasons, Soto’s record-breaking contract underscores his immense talent and significance in the league.
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