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The story begins in July 2022 when Soto, then 23, rejected a staggering 15-year, $440 million extension from the Washington Nationals. This offer would have secured him the largest contract in baseball history at that time, yet Soto's decision baffled many, even among his own family.
Entering the 2022 season, Soto boasted impressive career statistics, including a .300 batting average, a .430 on-base percentage, and a 160 OPS+. Such stats uniquely placed him alongside baseball legends Ted Williams and Frank Thomas. The average annual value (AAV) of $29.3 million was simply not enough for Soto, compelling the Nationals to pivot towards rebuilding.