Juan Soto has signed a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract with the New York Mets, becoming the highest-paid player in American sports history. The deal includes a $75 million signing bonus and a suite at CitiField for personal use.
Soto’s contract surpasses the previous record held by Mike Trout, who signed a 12-year, $426.5 million extension with the Los Angeles Angels in 2019. The Mets’ offer was more than twice as much as the Yankees’ final bid of 16 years and $760 million.
The deal includes various incentives, such as bonuses for MVP awards, All-Star appearances, and World Series MVP wins. Soto will also receive personal security for himself and his family during games.
Mets owner Steve Cohen stated that he was willing to provide the suite due to Soto’s desire to be treated like family. The team has never given a free stadium suite to any of its other superstars.
Soto stands to make over $800 million over the next 15 years, with the potential to increase his earnings by up to $4 million per season if he exercises an opt-out clause after 2029. The deal is set to last until 2039 and will be one of the most lucrative contracts in sports history.
With this massive signing, Cohen aims to lead the Mets back to a World Series title, which has eluded the team since 1986. As Soto looks forward to his new role with the Mets, he is likely to receive widespread recognition for his impressive contract and contributions to the team.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/danfreedman/2024/12/14/juan-sotos-765-million-contract-with-the-mets-has-a-ton-of-extras