Meet the Stars Ready to Challenge Juan Soto’s $765M Record: A Sneak Peek at Upcoming MLB Free-Agent Classes!

Who could break Juan Soto’s $765 million record? As the landscape of Major League Baseball (MLB) evolves, the recent offseasons have seen players secure unprecedented contracts, raising questions about the future of player earnings.

Shohei Ohtani’s staggering $700 million agreement with the Los Angeles Dodgers shattered Mike Trout’s former record of $426.5 million. Meanwhile, Juan Soto’s landmark $765 million deal with the New York Mets not only redefined expectations but also highlighted the increasing financial power of MLB franchises. This shift in contract values indicates a significant trend in player negotiations, especially when considering Ohtani’s deferred payments totaling $680 million over two decades.

So, the question remains: who might challenge Soto’s record? While it seems unlikely that Soto’s contract will be surpassed by any current MLB player in the immediate future, several upcoming free agents could potentially make waves in the market and join the exclusive $300 million club before the decade concludes.

An early examination of the next wave of free agents reveals intriguing possibilities.

2025-26 offseason

Toronto Blue Jays 1B Vladimir Guerrero Jr.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. stands at the forefront of the upcoming offseason’s free-agent class. At just 25 years old, he showcased MVP-caliber performance in 2024, boasting impressive stats with a .323 batting average, 30 home runs, and 103 RBIs. Guerrero will be slightly older than Soto when he becomes a free agent, positioning him for a lucrative long-term contract. While his deal may not match Soto’s record length, he could still join the elite group of players receiving contracts worth $400 million or more.

Houston Astros OF Kyle Tucker

Kyle Tucker, another standout, may even outshine Guerrero in the eyes of some analysts. His consistent hitting and exceptional defensive skills make him a valuable asset. After posting a .289 batting average with 23 home runs in just 78 games last season, Tucker could secure a significant payday if he maintains this performance level. However, he’ll be 29 by the start of the 2026 season, which could impact his market value.

San Diego Padres RHP Dylan Cease and Arizona Diamondbacks RHP Zac Gallen

Dylan Cease and Zac Gallen are poised to be the premier pitchers available next offseason. Both will be 30 by the 2026 season and have recently achieved top-five finishes in the Cy Young race. With only two pitchers historically securing contracts exceeding $300 million, the market may soon see a shift, especially with the potential signing of Corbin Burnes this winter.

2026-27 offseason

Detroit Tigers LHP Tarik Skubal

Tarik Skubal is gaining recognition as a top-tier pitcher, having recently completed a triple crown season. Although he won’t hit free agency until he turns 30, his impressive performance could position him to command the largest pitching contract in MLB history, depending on his continued success.

Boston Red Sox LHP Garrett Crochet

Garrett Crochet, who recently joined the Boston Red Sox, may also be in line for a substantial extension, potentially reaching nine figures. However, his market value could be lower than what he might command in free agency two years from now.

2027-28 offseason

As the Baltimore Orioles’ young core develops, Adley Rutschman will enter free agency shortly before his 30th birthday. The two-time All-Star has experienced some regression but remains a valuable asset. He is likely to surpass Joe Mauer’s record eight-year, $184 million extension for catchers, whether he extends with the Orioles or enters the market.

Rutschman’s agency has previously negotiated significant deals, indicating a strong potential for a lucrative contract.

Milwaukee Brewers C William Contreras

William Contreras, another catcher, could also challenge Mauer’s record. He will also be turning 30 that offseason and has demonstrated slightly better hitting than Rutschman, though his defense may not be as strong. His future with the Brewers remains uncertain.

Seattle Mariners RHP Logan Gilbert

Logan Gilbert may also emerge as a top candidate for a massive contract. He has been a standout pitcher in the American League and, with his durability and effectiveness, could join the ranks of pitchers securing $300 million deals.

2028-29 offseason

Gunnar Henderson, a promising shortstop, is set to hit free agency a year after Rutschman. At just 23 years old, he has already established himself as a top player, posting impressive statistics that could position him to challenge Soto’s record. His agent is known for negotiating lucrative contracts, which adds intrigue to his potential market value.

Star shortstops have historically commanded top dollar, making Henderson’s future negotiations particularly fascinating.

Houston Astros OF/DH Yordan Alvarez

Yordan Alvarez, who signed a six-year, $115 million extension in 2022, will be 31 when he becomes a free agent. His consistent production could lead to a substantial payday, depending on his performance leading up to free agency.

2029-30 offseason

New York Mets OF Juan Soto

Juan Soto’s opt-out clause after five seasons could reshape the landscape once more. By the time he turns 31, he will have already earned $255 million from the Mets. The team could avoid the opt-out by committing to an additional $550 million, reflecting the ongoing trend of astronomical contracts.

Atlanta Braves OF Ronald Acuña Jr.

Ronald Acuña Jr. will also be eligible for free agency during the 2029-30 offseason. At 32, he may not set any records, but his earlier extension could have impacted his future earning potential.

Atlanta Braves RHP Spencer Strider

San Diego Padres OF Jackson Merrill

Jackson Merrill, a promising 21-year-old, excelled in his rookie season, earning an All-Star selection. His all-around performance could lead to significant earnings in the future.

Cincinnati Reds SS Elly De La Cruz

Seattle Mariners OF Julio Rodríguez

Julio Rodríguez’s massive extension includes a player option that could come into play during the 2029-30 offseason. At 29, he will still be in a prime position to negotiate a lucrative deal.

2030-31 offseason and beyond

Pirates ace Paul Skenes is set to become a free agent at just 28 years old. His impressive rookie season positions him as a potential record-setter in the future.

Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. will also be a free agent in the 2030-31 offseason, following an 11-year, $288.7 million extension that he signed last offseason. His player option could lead to exciting negotiations.

Diamondbacks outfielder Corbin Carroll’s extension will keep him from free agency until the 2031-32 offseason, while Brewers outfielder Jackson Chourio’s early extension has already proven beneficial for his team as he excelled in his rookie season.

Padres outfielder Fernando Tatís Jr. remains a significant figure in the long-term contract conversation, as his 14-year deal keeps him from free agency until the 2034-35 offseason.

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