MLB Insider Reveals Why Juan Soto Turned Down Historic Offer From Nationals

As if the upcoming MLB trade deadline wasn't already exciting enough, add superstar Juan Soto to the list of possible blockbuster targets. The 23-year-old turned down a $440 million contract extension from the Washington Nationals, forcing the team to change their outlook on the future.

Juan Soto declined $440M, 15-year offer from Nats and will be available now. A few reasons he declined: 1. Heavy backloading of deal is tantamount to big deferral 2. $29M AAV is seen as old figure in light of Scherzer, other deals 3. Team is likely to be sold so owner unknown.
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) July 16, 2022

Juan Soto Contract

The extension was slated for 15 years, essentially locking Soto in as a National for his entire career. MLB Insider Jon Heyman explained that the idea wasn't as much of a driving point as Washington hoped it would be. The team is likely to be sold and Soto has no clue who the next owner will be.

The deal would've also made Soto the highest-paid player in MLB history, but not from an AAV perspective. The two-time All-Star would've been earning $29.3 million per year, which pails in comparison to recent deals like pitcher Max Scherzer's (3 years, $130 million ($43.3 million AAV)).

There's no denying that it was a valiant attempt by the organization. In fact, the extension had no deferred money involved. That is completely different than what Washington has done in the past. However, backloading the deal ends in a similar result anyways, turning that fact obsolete.

Nationals News

No matter what, it's clear that Soto is searching for more. The two-time All-Star has cemented himself as one of the best hitters in the game and owns a career slash line of .292/.427/.540 across five seasons. Soto is also on pace to lead the majors in walks for the second straight year.

Keep an eye on agent Scott Boras' strategy here. He usually prefers his clients to establish their value on the market and Soto doesn't enter free agency for another two years. If the Silver Slugger remains healthy, he could put his name in the record book with a deal worth more than $500 million.

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