$765 Million Buyout Shocker

Disappointment? Juan Soto Called ‘Most Mistaken Contract in History’ After Walking Start for Mets

A Blockbuster Deal Turns Sour

When the New York Mets signed superstar slugger Juan Soto to a record-shattering $765 million buyout, fans and analysts alike hailed it as a game-changing moment. Soto, widely regarded as one of the best hitters of his generation, was expected to bring power, consistency, and a winning mentality to Queens. But just months into his Mets tenure, the narrative has flipped — dramatically.

Instead of highlight-reel home runs, Soto’s name is now associated with frustration. His sluggish start to the season has sparked harsh criticism, with some pundits labeling the deal as “the most mistaken contract in MLB history.”

A Walking Start Raises Eyebrows

While no one doubts Soto’s talent, his performance with the Mets has been puzzling. Through the opening stretch of the season, Soto has drawn plenty of walks but has failed to deliver the offensive fireworks fans anticipated. His on-base percentage remains solid, but his slugging numbers are far below expectations.

Critics argue that Soto’s overly patient approach at the plate is hurting the Mets’ run production. Instead of driving in key runs, Soto’s tendency to walk has left the lineup stagnant. For a player commanding nearly a billion-dollar investment, patience is wearing thin — both on the field and in the front office.

Why the Mets Took the Gamble

To understand the magnitude of this backlash, it’s important to revisit why the Mets pursued Soto so aggressively. Owner Steve Cohen was determined to make a statement. Locking down a generational talent like Soto was supposed to signal the Mets’ commitment to winning at any cost.

The deal was also a bet on Soto’s long-term value. At just 26 years old, he seemed like a safe investment for the next decade. His past performances with the Nationals and Padres showcased a rare combination of discipline, power, and postseason heroics.

But baseball is a cruel game. Past success guarantees nothing.

Is It Too Early to Panic?

Not everyone is ready to declare the Soto signing a disaster. Supporters point out that baseball seasons are marathons, not sprints. Slumps happen, even to superstars. Advanced metrics suggest Soto is still making quality contact, with a low batting average on balls in play (BABIP) hinting at bad luck rather than decline.

Additionally, his presence in the lineup forces pitchers to adjust, indirectly benefiting his teammates. The walks, while frustrating, still contribute to run-scoring opportunities. Optimists believe it’s only a matter of time before Soto regains his power stroke.

The Weight of a $765 Million Contract

However, the sheer scale of the contract amplifies every misstep. At $765 million, expectations are astronomical. Fans expect nothing less than MVP-caliber performances night after night. Anything short of that invites scrutiny.

Opposing fans and media outlets have been relentless, with headlines mocking the Mets’ spending spree. Phrases like “$765 Million Walk Machine” and “Citi Field Statue in Motion” have flooded social media.

Mets’ Front Office: Regret or Patience?

Inside the Mets’ front office, there is reportedly no panic — yet. Sources close to the team suggest that Stearns and Cohen remain confident in Soto’s long-term impact. However, there’s a growing recognition that adjustments need to be made, both in Soto’s approach and in the team’s lineup construction.

Privately, some executives have admitted surprise at how passive Soto’s plate appearances have been. There is hope that a few mechanical tweaks, combined with strategic coaching, can unlock the superstar version of Soto that the Mets paid for.

The Verdict: Mistake or Masterstroke in Waiting?

Calling Juan Soto’s $765 million contract “the most mistaken in history” might be premature. Baseball history is filled with slow starts that turned into legendary seasons. But in the relentless media environment of New York, patience is a luxury rarely afforded.

For now, Juan Soto’s legacy with the Mets hangs in the balance. Will he become a symbol of misguided excess, or will he flip the script and deliver the heroics Citi Field craves?

Time will tell — but the clock is already ticking.