Kristian Campbell’s early contract renewal with the Boston Red Sox has sparked numerous discussions in the early season. Most people agree that the eight-year, $60 million agreement is a smart move for the Red Sox. However, there are those who think the 22-year-old Campbell could potentially lose out on more money in the future.

The contract also features two club options amounting to $40 million, which might delay his free agency until he is 32. By then, Campbell would have secured $100 million, providing financial security for him and his family. Yet, if his career unfolds as expected, he might miss a larger financial opportunity. Young players face inherent risks when negotiating extensions, no matter the path they choose.

Campbell recently found solace in words from a former Red Sox player who didn’t receive a lucrative deal like his. Will Middlebrooks, current broadcaster and 2013 Red Sox World Series champion third baseman, shared his conversation with Campbell following the extension on his podcast, “Sox Talk With Will Middlebrooks.”

Middlebrooks expressed, “I believe it’s a solid deal for both parties. I spoke with Kristian afterward, saying, ‘I understand why you took it.’ It’s still a substantial sum. In reality, how many players get a shot at $60 million? Very few. We often focus on the (Juan) Sotos, (Shohei) Ohtanis, (Max) Scherzers, and (Justin) Verlanders. They are a small fraction of the player base. Most players earn league minimum for a short period and then exit the game.”

Middlebrooks was once a promising Red Sox prospect himself, but only accumulated three years of major league service, playing for Boston and three other teams, earning $3.9 million before retiring in 2019. Although Campbell may not join the ranks of top career earners in baseball, he can enjoy at least the next seven years without worrying about his performance impacting his income each season. This financial security might significantly contribute to his success.