Key Takeaways:
– MLB player Juan Soto may be in line for a record-breaking contract.
– His impressive 2024 performance could earn him a 15-year contract worth $520 million.
– This would be the longest contract in Major League history.
– New York Yankees potentially preparing to accommodate the predicted contract.
– Soto’s consistent health history and standout performance make him worth the substantial contract.
Body:
As the 2024 MLB season progresses, baseball pundits are making some bold predictions about Juan Soto’s future contract. Known for his remarkable performances, Soto has had an impressive season that could result in him securing an unprecedented 15-year contract with the New York Yankees.
A Projection Worth Noticing
MLB writer Zachary Rymer of the Bleacher Report suggests that Soto’s fantastic 2024 performance could entitle him to a landmark 15-year contract worth $520 million. This could set a new Major League record, surpassing the 14-year contract Fernando Tatis Jr gained with the San Diego Padres in 2021. Such a deal would retain Soto until he’s 40, meaning the Yankees would be signing him for his most productive years.
Though a 15-year deal sounds improbable, it isn’t implausible. Two years ago, Soto turned down a similar length contract worth $440 million from the Washington Nationals. According to Rymer, this deal could average Soto a salary of $34.67 million per year.
Belonging With the Yankees
If Rymer’s predictions come to fruition, Soto would become the second-highest-paid Yankees player, behind American League Home Run King and team captain Aaron Judge. Together, they would account for more than 30% of the Yankees’ luxury tax allotment.
Although the Yankees have expressed a desire to reduce their payroll, it doesn’t necessarily exclude Soto. Financial flexibility could be achieved by declining Anthony Rizzo’s club option for next year, saving $17 million. The Yankees could also consider trading Gleyber Torres, thus eliminating his $14.2 million, and possibly not renew Trent Grisham’s contract.
Evaluating Soto’s Worth
There is a consensus that Soto’s consistent performance and impressive health history justify the potential contract. Since 2019, he’s played at least 150 games in every full season, making him a reliable player.
His transition from San Diego to the Bronx and changing leagues hasn’t affected his performance. After 68 games this season, Soto boasts a batting average of .320, a .433 on-base percentage, and a 1.025 OPS, all exceeding his career averages.
His defensive ability is also noteworthy, with Rymer citing a 10-point increase in outs above average compared to last year. Emphasizing Soto’s all-rounded talent, Rymer debunks those who label Soto as a player who only walks and hits singles.
Indeed, Soto shines across the board, boasting a career-best 19% barrel percentage and a hard hit rate of 59.5%. His line drives have hit their highest rate since 2019, and over a quarter of his fly balls are leaving the field.
In conclusion, all signs point to a high possibility of Soto earning this unprecedented contract. The coming offseason will reveal whether Rymer’s predictions hold up and if Soto will ink MLB history with a record-breaking contract. Regardless of the outcome, MLB fans can look forward to more exciting Soto performances for the foreseeable future.