Juan Soto turned down a $350 million extension offer from the Washington Nationals, according to ESPN’s Enrique Rojas. Soto confirmed the offer was made in an ESPN story. The offer was for 13 years.
“Yes they made me the offer a couple of months ago, before the lockout we have in baseball,” Soto told ESPN. “But right now, me and my agents think the best option is to go year after year and wait for free agency. My agent, Scott Boras, is in control of that situation.”
Soto, who is just 23 years of age, is under the Nationals’ team control through the 2024 season. He estimated to make $15.5 million through arbitration in 2022 once the lockout is lifted.
Currently, Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout has the largest contract in MLB at $426 million. Many believe Soto will fetch close to $500 million through free agency when he is made available.
Arguably one of the best bats young bats in baseball, Soto won the NL batting title at the age of 21 in 2020. He topped that by having an amazing season in 2021.
Last season, he hit .313/.465/.534 with 29 home runs and 95 RBIs. He also led all of MLB with 145 walks.
News of Soto turning down Nats’ offer hearkens back to the negotiations of the team with Bryce Harper and Anthony Rendon. Both are represented by Scott Boras. Both ultimately signed with other teams in free agency.
