JUST IN: Gerrit Cole’s Hilarious Two-Word Reaction to Juan Soto’s $765M Mega-Deal – Yankees Ace Speaks Out!
The baseball world was shaken to its core when Juan Soto secured a record-shattering $765 million contract, making him the highest-paid player in MLB history. The New York Yankees’ decision to lock up their superstar outfielder for the foreseeable future sent shockwaves through the league, leaving fans, analysts, and players stunned by the sheer magnitude of the deal.
One of the most intriguing reactions came from Yankees ace Gerrit Cole, whose two-word response perfectly captured the humor and disbelief that many in baseball felt upon hearing the staggering numbers. When asked about Soto’s contract, Cole simply laughed and said:
“That’s wild.”
Short and sweet, but with plenty of meaning behind it. Cole, who himself signed a massive nine-year, $324 million deal with the Yankees in 2019, knows a thing or two about securing a historic payday. However, Soto’s contract nearly doubles that figure, setting a new standard for superstar deals.
Juan Soto’s $765M Deal: A Game-Changer for Baseball
The 25-year-old slugger, known for his elite plate discipline, incredible power, and ability to perform in high-pressure moments, was already considered one of the best hitters of his generation. Since debuting in 2018, Soto has consistently put up MVP-caliber numbers, solidifying himself as a cornerstone player for any franchise lucky enough to have him.
The Yankees’ decision to offer Soto such a massive contract reflects their commitment to building a dynasty. After trading for him in the offseason, there was no way they were going to let him walk in free agency. The front office pulled out all the stops to ensure that Soto remains in pinstripes for the rest of his career.
His contract surpasses the previous record-breaking deals of stars like Shohei Ohtani ($700M with the Dodgers), Mike Trout ($426.5M with the Angels), and Mookie Betts ($365M with the Dodgers). Soto now holds the title of the richest contract in sports history.
Gerrit Cole’s Perspective: A Veteran’s View on the Mega-Deal
Gerrit Cole, one of the best pitchers in baseball, has been around long enough to witness the evolution of MLB contracts. When he signed his $324M contract with the Yankees, it was the largest deal ever given to a pitcher. At the time, it set the benchmark for elite aces, demonstrating how much teams valued dominant starting pitching.
Now, just a few years later, Soto’s deal has more than doubled Cole’s contract, highlighting the ever-growing financial landscape of Major League Baseball.
Cole’s reaction—“That’s wild”—reflects the sentiments of many around the league. Even for a star who has benefited from baseball’s lucrative contract system, seeing a $765M deal is still jaw-dropping.
When reporters pressed Cole for more thoughts on Soto’s contract, he couldn’t help but smile.
“He deserves it. The guy is a generational hitter. If you have a chance to keep a player like that, you do whatever it takes.”
Cole’s respect for Soto as a player is well-documented. The two have faced each other multiple times over the years, dating back to their battles in the American League and National League. Soto’s ability to work deep counts, force pitchers into mistakes, and capitalize on any pitch left over the plate makes him one of the toughest hitters to face.
What Soto’s Contract Means for the Yankees
By securing Soto long-term, the Yankees have ensured they will have one of the most fearsome lineups in baseball for years to come. Pairing him with Aaron Judge, another megastar with a $360 million contract, gives the Bronx Bombers a historic one-two punch in the heart of their order.
Impact on the Yankees’ Lineup
With Soto and Judge leading the charge, the Yankees boast an offense that will terrify opposing pitchers. A Soto-Judge combo means:
- More runs – Both hitters have elite on-base percentages, making it harder for pitchers to navigate through the lineup.
- Better protection – Pitchers can’t pitch around one player because the next one is just as dangerous.
- Championship expectations – With two MVP-caliber hitters anchoring the team, the Yankees are officially in World Series or bust mode.
Even Cole acknowledged that having Soto on his team is a nightmare for opposing pitchers:
“I used to hate facing him. Now I get to watch him do damage from the dugout. That’s a win for me.”
How Other Players Reacted to Soto’s Deal
Cole wasn’t the only one stunned by Soto’s contract. MLB players across the league took to social media to react to the record-breaking deal. Some of the best reactions included:
- Bryce Harper (Phillies): “$765M?!? My guy just changed the game forever.”
- Manny Machado (Padres): “Big-time money for a big-time player. Congrats, bro!”
- Ronald Acuña Jr. (Braves): “Crazy numbers. He earned every penny.”
- Mike Trout (Angels): “Juan deserves it. One of the best in the game. Can’t wait to see what he does next.”
Even former players chimed in, including David Ortiz, who jokingly said:
“I was born in the wrong era, man! I should’ve waited to play in 2025.”
What’s Next for the Yankees?
With Soto’s contract officially in the books, the Yankees now shift their focus toward winning championships. Their payroll is now among the highest in MLB history, but that comes with sky-high expectations.
Can the Yankees deliver?
Cole believes so. When asked whether this team has what it takes to win a World Series, he confidently responded:
“Absolutely. We have the pieces. Now it’s about going out there and proving it.”
Final Thoughts: Soto’s Deal is a Game-Changer
Gerrit Cole’s “That’s wild” reaction summed up how the entire baseball world felt when Soto’s contract was announced. The deal is unlike anything we’ve seen before, reshaping how we view player contracts and setting a new standard for baseball’s biggest superstars.
For the Yankees, this isn’t just about money—it’s about securing a generational talent who can help them win multiple World Series titles. With Juan Soto and Aaron Judge leading the way, and Gerrit Cole anchoring the rotation, the Yankees are now officially in dynasty mode.
As the baseball world continues to digest the magnitude of this deal, one thing is clear:
Juan Soto just got paid. The Yankees just got even scarier. And Gerrit Cole? He’s just happy he doesn’t have to pitch against Soto anymore.
