Juan Soto/ Mets/ MLB record contract/ largest sports deal/ baseball history/ Juan Soto Mets/ DALLAS/ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Star outfielder Juan Soto has agreed to a record-breaking $765 million, 15-year contract with the New York Mets, potentially escalating to $805 million. The deal, the largest in team sports history, includes a $75 million signing bonus and allows an opt-out after 2029. Soto’s agreement surpasses previous MLB records, emphasizing his stellar career achievements.
Juan Soto’s $765M Contract with Mets: Quick Looks
- Record Deal: Juan Soto’s 15-year, $765 million contract with the Mets is the largest in team sports history.
- Potential Escalation: The deal could rise to $805 million and includes a $75 million signing bonus.
- Opt-Out Clause: Soto can opt out after 2029 if the Mets don’t increase his average annual salary by $4 million.
- No Deferred Money: The contract averages $51 million per year without deferred payments.
- MLB History: Surpasses Shohei Ohtani’s $700 million contract with the Dodgers and Fernando Tatis Jr.’s 14-year deal.
- Career Highlights: Soto has a .285 batting average, 201 homers, and seven seasons of elite performance.
Juan Soto Signs Historic $765M Deal with Mets
Deep Look
In a monumental move that reshapes the baseball landscape, star outfielder Juan Soto and the New York Mets have finalized a groundbreaking 15-year contract worth $765 million, sources reveal. This historic agreement, which may escalate to $805 million, is believed to be the most lucrative in team sports history. First reported by the New York Post and confirmed by an anonymous source to the Associated Press, the deal hinges on a successful physical.
A Record-Breaking Pact
Soto’s contract eclipses the previous record held by Shohei Ohtani, who signed a $700 million, 10-year deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Unlike Ohtani’s agreement, which included deferred payments, Soto’s deal delivers an average annual value of $51 million with no deferred money. This marks a new benchmark in Major League Baseball, both in length and monetary value.
The New York Yankees had also vied for Soto’s signature, offering $760 million over 16 years. However, the Mets’ superior terms and aggressive approach secured the services of the 26-year-old phenom.
Historic Career and Achievements
Soto, a four-time All-Star, debuted in 2018 with the Washington Nationals at just 19 years old. He quickly cemented his place among the game’s elite, helping the Nationals win the World Series in 2019. That season, he hit .282 with 34 homers and 110 RBIs.
In 2022, Soto turned down a 15-year, $440 million extension from Washington, leading to a trade to the San Diego Padres. Following the Padres’ owner’s death, he was traded to the Yankees in December 2023. Soto played a pivotal role in leading New York to the World Series, marking their first appearance since 2009.
In 2024, Soto showcased his brilliance by batting .288 with 41 home runs, 109 RBIs, and 129 walks. His postseason heroics, including game-winning homers in the AL Championship Series and AL Pennant decider, underscored his clutch performance.
The Future with the Mets
The Mets’ acquisition of Soto positions them as top contenders in the MLB. The deal includes an opt-out clause after the 2029 season, provided the Mets don’t increase Soto’s average annual salary by $4 million. Additionally, a $75 million signing bonus underscores the commitment between Soto and the franchise.
As one of the most accomplished free agents in MLB history at his age, Soto’s career trajectory suggests even greater heights. Over seven seasons, he has amassed a .285 batting average, 201 home runs, 592 RBIs, and 769 walks, solidifying his reputation as one of the game’s brightest stars.
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