The Washington Nationals are the latest team that can breathe a sigh of relief, as news reports that superstar Juan Soto has agreed to a deal worth $17.1 million in 2022.
MLB arbitration deadline: Juan Soto signs one-year, $17.1M deal with Nationals; Matt Chapman, Jays reach deal #CB… https://t.co/E8ehwsDR51
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It's just a one-year deal according to CBS Sports, but nevertheless, it takes a little of the pressure off the Nationals. The agreement puts in place the opportunity for Soto to earn a massive payday in the future.
Soto is coming off a massive season in which he batted .313 with 29 homers and 95 RBIs in 151 games. He led the majors with 145 walks and a .465 on-base percentage. Soto finished second in the National League MVP race to fellow superstar Bryce Harper. That came on the heels of the COVID-shortened season where Soto hit .351.
Soto is easily recognized as one of the best all-around baseball players in the league. That put Washington into a tough position where they needed to get something done. It appears as though a possible crisis has been averted.
Article Continues BelowSoto is not scheduled to become a free agent until after the 2024 season. So, the Nationals have time to re-negotiate and work out a long-term contract with the rising star. He is still only 23-years-old, so the future is bright for Soto.
Soto joined Trea Turner as the biggest names to avoid arbitration on Tuesday. Turner signed a $21 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Dodgers also inked rising star pitcher Julio Urias to a one-year, $8 million deal Tuesday.
The Nationals had reportedly offered Soto a 13-year, $350 million contract. So rejected the deal.