New York Mets manager the addition of superstar outfielder Juan Soto, signing him to a 15-year, $765 million deal. The contract includes a $75 million signing bonus and an opt-out clause after five years.
Soto’s decision to join the Mets is seen as a significant blow to their crosstown rivals, the New York Yankees, who had offered a more lucrative deal of 16 years for $760 million. However, Soto expressed that he didn’t choose the Mets over the Yankees but rather considered them alongside five other teams.
The Mets’ owner, Steve Cohen, made a request from Soto for a family suite in his contract, which was not included in the Yankees’ offer. The deal includes an opt-out clause after five years, allowing the team to avoid paying Soto’s full salary if they want to re-sign him.
Cohen praised Soto as a “very detail-oriented person” and said that he accelerated the team’s goal of winning championships with his addition. The preparation for Soto began in earnest in August, with Cohen having discussed the possibility of signing him before being hired to lead the front office in October 2023.
Soto emphasized his commitment to building a dynasty with the Mets, citing their vision for the future and financial commitment as key factors in his decision. His family’s presence was also notable, with over 30 members attending his introductory news conference and several bringing food items from Dominican cuisine.
Source: https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/42938679/juan-soto-yankees-did-everything-their-power-sign-him