Contract talks have intensified between the Washington Nationals and Juan Soto with the club making an offer of $425 million over 13 years, according to MLB insider Hector Gomez.
The offer is $75 million more than the Nationals initial offer of $350 million. Soto rejected that offer this past winter.
However, the Washington Post’s Jesse Dougherty confirmed the Nationals made at least one additional offer beyond the $350 million deal. But, his multiple sources have told him the figures of 13 years and $425 million are “inaccurate.”
One thing is certain, the Nationals have stepped up their offer. The value of that offer is unclear. It’s also unclear if the latest offer is the club’s best and final and whether or not Soto will sign it.
Ever since he made his MLB debut at the age of 19, Soto established himself as one of the best hitters in baseball. In 2020, he became the youngest player to win the National League batting title at the age of 21.
In 2021, he became the game’s most feared hitter. As a result, he led the league with 145 walks and a .465 on-base percentage. He finished second in the NL MVP voting to his former Nationals teammate Bryce Harper.
When Soto turned down the $350 million, it was widely believed he and his agent, Scott Boras, were seeking to become baseball’s first $500 million player. Soto remains under club control through the 2024 season. This season he earns a salary of $17.1 million.
The fear amongst Nats fans has been Soto is on the verge of departing the team after low ball offers from ownership much like Bryce Harper and Anthony Rendon.
In April, it was reported the Nationals ownership are exploring options to sale the team. Pundits speculated the potential sale could affect contract negotiations with Soto.
Soto has struggled this season amid concerns of his future with the Nats. In 76 games, he has career lows with a .224 batting average, .375 on-base percentage and .437 slugging percentage. However, he still leads the league with 63 walks. He also has 14 home runs.
The Nationals are in the midst of a rebuild. They have a record of 29-49 — the 49 losses are most in the NL. But the club maintains they intend for Soto to be the centerpiece of their future. Increasing their offer is a sign they are serious about proving that. As to their level of seriousness, it depends on if the deal is less, close to or more than $425 million.
