DALLAS — Renowned outfielder Juan Soto has finalized a groundbreaking contract with the New York Mets, reportedly worth an astounding $765 million spread over 15 years, according to a reliable source who requested anonymity due to the deal’s pending physical examination.
This agreement marks a historic milestone, as it is the largest and longest contract ever seen in Major League Baseball, surpassing Shohei Ohtani’s previous record of $700 million for a 10-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, which was signed last December. Ohtani’s contract consisted of $680 million in deferred payments and was assessed just under $46.1 million for baseball’s luxury tax. Soto’s contract, however, is structured without any deferred payments, as indicated by the source.
Soto’s contract also outlasts Fernando Tatis Jr.’s 14-year contract worth $340 million with the San Diego Padres, which is set to run until 2034. At just 26 years old, Soto is a four-time All-Star and stands as the most successful free agent at this age since Alex Rodriguez, who signed a record $252 million, 10-year contract with the Texas Rangers at the age of 25 back in December 2000.
Making his major league debut with Washington at the age of 19 in 2018, Soto played a pivotal role in leading the Nationals to a World Series title the following season. He had an impressive season during that championship run, posting a .282 batting average along with 34 home runs and 110 RBIs. After he declined a $440 million, 15-year contract offer from Washington in 2022, Soto was subsequently traded to the San Diego Padres that August. Following the passing of Padres owner Peter Seidler, Soto was moved again to the Yankees in December 2023, aiding New York in reaching the World Series for the first time since 2009.
During his recent season, Soto achieved a .288 batting average, along with 41 home runs, 109 RBIs, and an impressive 129 walks, all while batting second in the lineup to support slugger Aaron Judge. This offensive strategy helped propel the team to lead the majors in home runs with a total of 237. Soto’s clutch performances included a pivotal go-ahead homer in the AL Championship Series opener against Cleveland and a decisive three-run homer in the 10th inning of Game 5 against the Guardians, which clinched the pennant.
Over his seven seasons in Major League Baseball, Soto has accumulated remarkable statistics, achieving a .285 batting average, 201 home runs, 592 RBIs, and 769 walks. The contract’s conclusion signals a new era in Soto’s career and further establishes his impact in the league.
