The New York Mets have made a significant move in securing superstar Juan Soto by focusing on a family-centric approach. This strategy appears to have been a decisive factor in finalizing Soto’s contract. In addition to the staggering 15-year, $765 million deal, the Mets have offered unique family perks that are being hailed as unprecedented.
According to the contract summary obtained, Soto will receive a luxury suite for all home games, four premium seats for every home game, security for both the player and his family at home and on the road, and various family services. While the specifics of “family services” are unclear, there is no indication that Soto or his family will receive additional benefits such as airplane travel or clothing as some reports have suggested. Mets owner Steve Cohen and his wife Alex have emphasized the importance of family since acquiring the team.
Alex, a co-owner herself, has been vocal about creating a family-friendly environment. Both she and her father, Ralph Avila, were present at the initial meeting with Soto at the Cohens’ Beverly Hills home in November.
Family perks secure Soto deal
The Mets’ offer edged out a competing bid from the New York Yankees by a narrow margin of $5 million. The Yankees declined to include a suite at Yankee Stadium in their offer, a precedent that has been maintained for their top stars such as Aaron Judge and former player Derek Jeter, who had to pay for their suites. The decision to provide extensive family perks likely played a key role in Soto’s decision.
The suites at Citi Field can cost between $3,250 and $13,000 per game, depending on the date and opponent, making this a substantial perk. The dedication to a family-focused atmosphere under the Cohen ownership seemed to have bolstered the Mets’ appeal to Soto, underscoring the influence of factors beyond just the financial terms. The Yankees had tried to offer a competitive financial package but fell short due to the absence of non-monetary perks like a suite.
Notably, the Yankees were willing to discount the suite’s cost, which could be valued up to $1 million annually, but ultimately chose not to include it. The deal with Soto highlights the Mets’ commitment to not only building a strong team but also creating an environment that values and supports the families of its players.
