In a surprising move, Dominican baseball player Juan Soto has signed the biggest contract in sports history.
The 26-year-old outfielder has agreed to a 15-year deal with the New York Mets, worth a huge $765 million (around €724 million).
This deal breaks the previous record held by Japanese player Shohei Ohtani, who signed a 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers last year.
Source: Ryan Casey Aguinaldo
Soto’s contract is significantly higher, showing just how much demand there is for him as one of the best players in Major League Baseball (MLB).
Soto will now be the main star for the Mets, after spending the previous season with the New York Yankees. As part of his contract, Soto will also receive a $70 million signing bonus. The deal includes a special clause that allows Soto to leave in 2029 if the Mets don’t increase his salary by another $4 million.
What This Contract Means
This historic contract marks the beginning of a new chapter in Soto’s career, but not only that.
Soto’s signing is not just a financial record but also a statement about the direction of Major League Baseball contracts. It signals that top-tier players are increasingly commanding contracts that are comparable to those of star athletes in other sports, such as basketball and football. This move will undoubtedly reshape the future of MLB player contracts.
A New Era for the Mets
The New York Mets are excited about the impact Juan Soto will have on their team, hoping his arrival will strengthen their offense.
In recent years, the Mets have had trouble competing at a high level, but with Soto now on the roster, they are ready to become serious contenders in the National League. With Soto joining other key players, he could help lead the Mets to the postseason, bringing new energy and excitement to one of the most famous teams in MLB.
The Rise of Juan Soto
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| MLB Debut | 2018 |
| First Team | Washington Nationals |
| Key Role in 2019 World Series | Hitting .277 with 3 home runs and 7 RBIs, including a crucial 3-run home run in the World Series |
| Awards Earned by Age 23 | 2 Silver Slugger Awards, 3 All-Star Games appearances |
| Career Batting Average | .292 |
| Career Home Runs | 120+ home runs |
| Career On-base Percentage | Above .400 |