Superstar outfielder Juan Soto has agreed to a monumental 15-year, $765 million contract with the New York Mets, sources revealed Sunday night. The deal, which includes an opt-out after five years and no deferred payments, is the largest in professional sports history and could exceed $800 million with performance escalators.
A Star Joins the Mets
At just 26 years old, Soto is known for his exceptional power, elite plate discipline, and postseason success. His addition strengthens a Mets team that reached the National League Championship Series last season.
Soto had a standout 2023 campaign with the Yankees, helping the team to the World Series and finishing third in American League MVP voting. His availability in free agency sparked a bidding war among top teams, including the Yankees, Blue Jays, Red Sox, and Dodgers. Even smaller-market teams like the Royals and Rays explored signing the generational talent.
A Career of Dominance
Since debuting in 2018, Soto has posted a .285 batting average, .421 on-base percentage, and .532 slugging percentage, with 201 home runs and 592 RBIs. His command of the strike zone, often compared to Barry Bonds, has made him one of the most feared hitters in baseball.
Soto’s deal surpasses the previous record set by Shohei Ohtani’s $700 million contract with the Dodgers last year, which included significant deferrals. In contrast, Soto’s agreement offers immediate financial value, further emphasizing his market appeal.
The Path to a Mega Deal
Soto’s journey to this record-breaking contract has been extraordinary. Signed by the Washington Nationals as a 16-year-old, he became a household name after leading the Nationals to a World Series victory in 2019. Despite multiple extension offers, Soto declined, leading to a blockbuster trade to the Padres in 2022.
After a strong 2023 season with San Diego, Soto was traded to the Yankees, where he flourished. He hit .288 with 41 home runs, 109 RBIs, and an American League-leading 128 runs. His postseason heroics, including a decisive home run in the ALCS, solidified his status as one of baseball’s elite players.
A Deal for the Ages
Soto’s $765 million contract is unmatched in length and value, reflecting his exceptional talent and consistent performance. It also eclipses the 14-year deal signed by Fernando Tatis Jr. and the unprecedented financial milestone achieved by Ohtani.
The Mets now lock in the prime years of a generational talent. Soto’s résumé already includes four All-Star appearances, four Silver Slugger awards, a batting title, a Home Run Derby championship, and a World Series ring.
A Financial Triumph
Soto’s decision to reject a 15-year, $440 million offer from the Nationals in 2022 has paid off tremendously. Including his arbitration earnings, Soto’s career financial haul now totals more than $819 million—nearly $380 million more than he would have earned had he accepted Washington’s deal.
Agent Scott Boras, who negotiated the deal, highlighted the unique nature of Soto’s value. “Financial markets speak for themselves,” Boras said, emphasizing that Soto’s skills and consistency made the historic contract inevitable.
As the Mets gear up for the next season, the acquisition of Juan Soto sends a clear message: New York is committed to contending for championships, and they’ve secured a superstar to lead the way.(*)
ESPN’s Jorge Castillo contributed to this report.
Source: Espn.com
