While MLB free agent Juan Soto has yet to finalize his highly anticipated contract, he’s already securing major paydays elsewhere.
The star outfielder teased his 1 million-plus Instagram followers with a video suggesting a major announcement was on the way. Fans speculated he might reveal a decision about staying with the New York Yankees or moving to a team like the New York Mets.
Instead, Soto surprised everyone with something entirely different.
Soto Joins “Team Celsius”
In the video, Soto appeared in a navy blue blazer—possibly a nod to the Yankees—and declared, “This was not an easy decision, but after meeting with the team, it’s become clear what I want to be.”
To the shock of fans, he then put on a cap and announced, “Team Celsius,” promoting the energy drink rather than a baseball team. Soto capped it off by sipping a Celsius drink and joking, “What? You were expecting a different announcement?”
Maximizing Free Agency
Soto’s clever marketing play showcases his ability to capitalize on the buzz surrounding his free-agent status. Partnering with Celsius highlights his appeal beyond the baseball diamond and reinforces his financial savvy during this pivotal career moment.
Agent Scott Boras, known for his aggressive negotiation tactics, appears to be leveraging every opportunity to enhance Soto’s earning potential. While this endorsement deal boosts Soto’s profile, it might frustrate fans of teams who miss out on signing him.
Boras reportedly aims to secure a record-breaking $700 million contract for Soto, though whether that figure is achievable remains uncertain. Perhaps energy drink endorsements could help close the gap.
The Stakes for MLB Teams
Teams vying for Soto’s talents—rumored to include the Yankees, Mets, Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Toronto Blue Jays—are preparing to make significant offers. However, they’ll need more than a caffeine boost to navigate the high-stakes negotiations for this generational talent.
