According to reports, the New York Mets are on the verge of a record-breaking $765 million deal to get star outfielder Juan Soto. The deal is one of the largest in MLB history but also offers an unusual level of security for the Mets, an almost risk-free investment in one of the league’s brightest talents.
Soto, who has proven to be one of the more vibrant and reliable hitters in baseball, will be signing an extension with the Mets for more than a few years- possibly for a number upwards of $765 million to become one of the higher-paid athletes in any sporting arena, but that which makes this deal one most intriguing is not the purse of the deal, it is the manner in which this agreement is structured.
The deal for the Mets is not really one about huge risk, but rather the long-term safety of an established player who has already earned his value. Soto possesses an extraordinary on-base ability with power and leadership skills to project into the heart of the Mets’ lineup for a decade and beyond, making the risk quite worthwhile for the team.
Most multi-million-dollar contracts are risk-laden due to concerns about the player’s performance and durability. But not in Soto’s case, for several reasons. First, Soto is one of the most accomplished young players in MLB with a resume that boasts multiple All-Star appearances, Silver Slugger awards, and a World Series title.
Second, Soto is just 25 years old, which means that he has many more prime years of performance before him. His consistent production at the plate combined with his healthiness gives the Mets an idea that he will continue being a major contributor to them throughout his contract.
From a financial perspective, the Mets are also protected against any potential decline in the performance of Soto. The contract is expected to be front-loaded, meaning most of his money will be realized in the early years of his contract. This way, the team can hedge against the potential risks of injuries or decline by Soto as he ages without being locked into a cost-intensive deal if his production declines.
For the Mets, however, this is about far more than getting a superstar about laying a foundation that will last. The introduction of Soto to this team would provide the necessary potent offensive core along with some more top-of-the-line talent to complement it. Steve Cohen’s ownership group has shown quite a willingness to spend on bigger names, and the injection of Soto would represent perhaps the biggest long-term investment a team can make toward making a roster ready for sustained contention.
With Soto by his side, the Mets will possess perhaps the strongest regular batting line-up in the major league circuit for years to come. Of course, his ability at bat coupled with his leadership quality coupled with being a marketable star make for a nearly assured return on investment against risks typical of mega-deals.
In the world of sports, where large contracts often come with uncertainty, the Mets’ bet on Soto may just be one of the safest—and most rewarding—moves in recent history.
