Sports commentator Dan Patrick is making waves with his outspoken take on MLB free agent Juan Soto’s potential $600 million contract. In a fiery statement, Patrick flatly declared he would never shell out that kind of money for the New York Yankees’ outfielder, dismissing him as “just a really good baseball player”—not the kind of transformative superstar worth such an astronomical price tag.
Patrick’s remarks draw a sharp contrast between Soto and Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ two-way sensation who recently signed a jaw-dropping $700 million deal over 10 years. For Patrick, Ohtani’s once-in-a-generation ability to dominate as both a pitcher and a hitter justifies his record-breaking payday. Soto, while undeniably talented, lacks the same “gate attraction” status, according to the veteran sports personality.
Ohtani vs. Soto: A Tale of Two Superstars
Patrick’s comparison underscores the disparity in media buzz and on-field impact between the two stars. Since debuting with the Los Angeles Angels in 2018, Ohtani has redefined the sport, smashing records and captivating fans as the ultimate dual-threat athlete. His unprecedented skillset makes him not just a baseball icon but a global phenomenon.
Meanwhile, Soto’s journey has been less flashy but still impressive. The 26-year-old debuted with the Washington Nationals in 2018, leading them to a World Series title in 2019, before moving to the San Diego Padres and eventually the Yankees. Despite his consistent offensive prowess and excellent on-base percentage, Soto has yet to achieve the same cultural impact as Ohtani. For Patrick, that’s a key distinction.
Patrick’s Critique: “Prove You’re Worth It”
In Patrick’s view, any player commanding $600 million needs to bring more than just talent—they need to be a marketable star who can fill stadiums and generate buzz. Ohtani checks those boxes; Soto, Patrick argues, does not.
“If you’re going to pay someone $600 million or more, they need to be a media magnet and a gate attraction,” Patrick said on his radio show. “Ohtani’s got it all. Soto? He’s a great outfielder, but he doesn’t have the same pull.”
MLB Legends Weigh In
Patrick’s comments echo a growing debate across the MLB landscape. While Soto’s skill as a hitter is unquestionable, critics argue that his value doesn’t warrant a contract surpassing Ohtani’s historic deal. However, supporters like free-agent pitcher Jack Flaherty believe Soto deserves to set a new market standard for “normal” players who don’t pitch.
“Bryce Harper signed for $330 million in 2019. It’s time for someone to reset the market,” Flaherty said, suggesting that Soto’s rumored $600 million deal could create a ripple effect in MLB contracts.
The Free Agency Race: Who Will Sign Soto?
Despite the controversy, Soto remains one of the hottest names in MLB free agency. His rare combination of power, plate discipline, and youth makes him a coveted asset for teams looking to bolster their rosters. Current frontrunners in the Soto sweepstakes include the New York Yankees, New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, and Toronto Blue Jays.
Yet, even among the favorites, there’s uncertainty about whether Soto’s lofty asking price will scare off potential suitors. The Yankees, who recently acquired Soto via trade, appear keen to keep him in pinstripes. However, rivals like the Mets and Red Sox could swoop in with competitive offers.
A $600 Million Gamble
Soto’s free agency has electrified the MLB offseason, but his price tag remains a polarizing issue. As Dan Patrick’s critique highlights, the question isn’t just whether Soto is worth $600 million—it’s whether he can redefine what “value” means in the modern baseball market.
For now, Soto’s potential megadeal represents a bold gamble, one that will ultimately hinge on his ability to deliver both on the field and at the box office. The clock is ticking, and the baseball world waits to see if Soto will become MLB’s next $600 million man—or if teams will balk at the price.
