Juan Soto Signs Historic $765 Million Deal with Mets

Juan Soto has signed a historic 15-year, $765 million contract with the New York Mets, marking the largest deal in North American sports history. This contract surpasses the previous record held by Shohei Ohtani and comes with a $75 million signing bonus, with potential escalators raising the total value to over $800 million. Soto's agreement, which has no deferred money, offers an average annual value of $51 million, making it the richest in MLB history for luxury tax purposes. The deal includes an opt-out clause after five seasons, allowing Soto to re-enter free agency at age 31. His decision to join the Mets over offers from the Yankees and Blue Jays signifies a shift in the competitive landscape of MLB, with Mets owner Steve Cohen positioning the franchise as a dominant force. Soto previously rejected a $440 million offer, illustrating his confidence in securing a more lucrative deal, which he ultimately achieved with this new contract.