We are currently in the heart of big contract signing season in the wonderful world of MLB. And this morning (Thursday) is no exception.
However, this is not the kind of signing we expected. Indeed, the Milwaukee Brewers and prospect Jackson Chourio are on the verge of reaching an eight-year deal worth nearly $80 million, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post.
This pact will shatter the record for the largest contract ever signed by a player who has still not made his debut in major baseball.
The record currently belongs to Chicago White Sox outfielder Luis Robert, who signed a six-year contract worth $50 million in 2020.
Chourio, a center fielder, is currently considered the number two prospect in the entire Manfred circuit. He reached the AAA level of the minor leagues in 2023, but only played six games at that level. He is expected to step on an MLB field during the 2024 opener or later in the summer.
This signing therefore offers Brewers fans a player to rally around in what appears to be a period of transition, who among others lost their boss David Stearns to the New York Mets at the start of the off-season.
Then, they saw manager Craig Counsell join the Chicago Cubs, their division rivals. Additionally, one of the best pitchers in franchise history, Brandon Woodruff, will not be returning to Milwaukee.
Not to mention that soon, they could be forced to part ways with Corbin Burnes and Willy Adames.
A little balm for a less than ideal situation.
We also wonder if this will inspire the Orioles to do the same with Jackson Holliday.
