The buzz hasn’t even worn off from Wander Franco’s massive 12-year extension, and already the talk has shifted to Washington Nationals slugger Juan Soto.
The 20-year old Franco signed a 12-year extension worth up to $223 million with the Tampa Bay Rays. That’s prompted the baseball world to turn its attention to Soto’s potential mega extension.
According to MLB insider Hector Gomez, Soto and the Nationals could be on the verge of a record-breaking deal that would double Franco’s deal.
The 23-year old Soto has emerged as one of MLB’s top players. In fact, there is an argument that Soto could be the best player in the game or very close to it.
It’s time to pay Juan Soto
Since his arrival in 2018, Soto’s star has shined for the Nationals. That year he finished second to Ronald Acuna Jr. for NL Rookie of the Year. In 2019, he helped lead Washington to the franchise’s first World Series title.
He became the youngest-ever to win a National League batting title in 2020. In 2021, he finished second to Bryce Harper for NL MVP. He also claimed his second consecutive Silver Slugger award.
In four seasons, Soto is hitting .301/.432/.550, 98 home runs and 312 RBIs all while drawing an impressive 373 walks. He led the Majors with 145 walks this past season.
The Nationals have three more seasons of team control of Soto. However, Soto is projected to earn a potential $500 million in a contract extension. Soto’s agent is Scott Boras, who does not take shortcuts for his clients.
The Nationals know all too well. They’ve lost two of Boras’ clients, Harper and Anthony Rendon in recent years to free agency, as their price tag was out of the Nats reach.
Nats fans won’t get excited too quickly until a deal is officially done. Trading away Trea Turner due in large to contract talks breaking off, is fresh on fans minds. Until more details surfaces about Soto receiving an extension, everyone will cautiously look on.
