Who will be baseball’s first half-billion-dollar star?

Summary: The recent $765 million contract signed by Juan Soto has set a new benchmark in baseball, sparking discussions about the potential for future contracts to reach even greater heights. As we look ahead, several players are poised to possibly join the ranks of those commanding half-billion-dollar deals, including Kyle Tucker, Gunnar Henderson, Elly De La Cruz, and Tarik Skubal.

Juan Soto’s Record Contract Sparks Speculation

Juan Soto’s unprecedented $765 million contract with the New York Mets has sent shockwaves throughout Major League Baseball. This monumental deal comes just a year after Shohei Ohtani signed for $700 million with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Such staggering figures raise the question: could we witness a player surpass Soto’s remarkable contract, potentially even reaching the elusive $800 million milestone?

While the likelihood of an $800 million contract seems slim, baseball insiders believe the landscape may soon welcome another $500 million player. Soto, Ohtani, and Vlad Guerrero Jr., who recently secured a $500 million extension with the Toronto Blue Jays, are the only three players in MLB history to achieve contracts exceeding half a billion dollars. Here, we explore four additional players who could soon join this elite group.

Kyle Tucker, Chicago Cubs, CF

Recently traded from the Houston Astros to the Chicago Cubs, Kyle Tucker represents a significant addition for his new team. Winning a World Series and making three consecutive All-Star appearances, Tucker is expected to bring a winning mentality to the Cubs’ locker room. Currently excelling in his final contract year, he aims for a substantial payday this offseason. Noted for his impressive combination of power and speed, Tucker, still under 30, stands to be a highly coveted asset. However, potential contract negotiations could be complicated by the looming threat of a lockout following the 2026 season, fuelling owner caution regarding long-term commitments.

Gunnar Henderson, Baltimore Orioles, SS

At just 24 years old, Gunnar Henderson has already established himself as a formidable presence in the league. After earning the American League Rookie of the Year title in 2023 and finishing fourth in the Most Valuable Player voting last season, Henderson’s talents are undeniable. As he approaches free agency at 27, his value will likely skyrocket if he continues his upward trajectory. The Orioles hope to secure him long-term, although a continuation of subpar performance could prompt him to explore opportunities with other teams.

Elly De La Cruz, Cincinnati Reds, SS

One of the most electrifying players currently in the league, Elly De La Cruz is setting records with his speed, having stolen over 100 bases in his brief career, including a league-leading 67 last season. To contend for a $500 million deal, however, he must enhance his overall consistency at the plate. With 207 strikeouts last season, De La Cruz could benefit from improving his contact rate. As he approaches free agency in 2029, demonstrating sustained excellence will be crucial.

Tarik Skubal, Detroit Tigers, P

While pitchers have yet to reach the $500 million mark, Tarik Skubal is making a compelling case. Currently, the highest pitching contract belongs to Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who secured $325 million with the Dodgers. Skubal, however, is on a promising trajectory, having recently clinched the AL Cy Young Award while leading the majors in wins, WAR, and strikeouts. Entering free agency at 30, if Skubal maintains or improves his performance, particularly over the next two seasons, he could command salaries in excess of $40 million annually, placing him firmly in the conversation for historic pitching contracts.