Juan Soto knows his relationship with Nationals is beyond repair (Video)

Washington Nationals star Juan Soto is frustrated that his contract talks were leaked, and can’t believe the team might trade him.

Soto’s team kept a close eye on him Monday during media availability at the All-Star Game, and we’re not talking about the Nationals.

The 23-year-old’s contract talks were leaked to Ken Rosenthal over the weekend, as he reportedly turned down a 15-year, $440 million deal that would’ve made him the highest-paid player in baseball. However, Soto had several reasons for turning down that deal, including the AAV and the Nats current ownership situation.

On Monday, Soto made it clear that he’s not happy those terms were leaked, or that the Nationals could trade him. This is especially true given the comments by Nats GM Mike Rizzo, who previously deemed Soto off the table.

Should Juan Soto be angry at the Nationals?

Contract negotiations are always rough, especially when they involve someone as young as Soto. That’s why he lets his agency, let by Scott Boras, take the wheel while he enjoys his time on the field.

Nonetheless, surely Boras keeps him in the loop, which makes this information getting out especially frustrating.

Boras, whose clientele also includes Max Scherzer, could be looking for an average AAV that rivals what the star pitcher received from the New York Mets. Scherzer’s deal was for three years and $130 million, which set AAV records.

The Nationals would prefer going the long-term investment route, meaning they offer to pay Soto a stable rate over the rest of career, and make him the highest-paid player in baseball. While that title won’t last forever, it’s an honor he deserves for now.

At just 23 years old, Soto already has two All-Star Games under his belt. There are many more where that came from.

Should Washington and Rizzo deal him, there will be no fair value. Losing Soto is losing the franchise, and will have an impact on ticket sales as well as merchandise for years to come.