Brewers Secure Rising Star Jackson Chourio with Historic Contract Extension
Outfielder Jackson Chourio, a top prospect, inked an eight-year, $82 million contract extension with the Milwaukee Brewers before even playing a single major league game. The unprecedented deal reflects the team’s strong belief in the young player’s potential and secures his future with the franchise.
Unexpected Offer Thrilled Chourio
Chourio, then 19, expressed surprise and excitement upon receiving the offer in December 2023. He told Baseball America that it was unexpected and appreciated the team’s support from the beginning, expressing his excitement to be with the brewers for a long time.
precedent for Pre-MLB Extensions
While uncommon, Chourio’s extension isn’t entirely without precedent. Similar deals have been offered to players like Luis Robert Jr., Evan white, Eloy Jiménez, Scott Kingery, and Jon Singleton before their MLB debuts. The Tigers extended Colt Keith’s contract in 2024.
Chourio’s Performance Proves Worth the Investment
Now 21 years old,Chourio finished third in Rookie of the Year voting last year after batting.275/.327/.464 with 21 home runs,79 RBIs,and 22 stolen bases,and he helped the Brewers win the NL Central. Given his production in his first two seasons, it is safe to say that Milwaukee’s contract offer is on track to deliver on its return on investment.
No Hesitation for Brewers Future
Chourio, without hesitation, accepted the landmark deal, signaling his commitment to the Brewers association. He is eager to make his mark in Milwaukee and live up to the team’s investment.
MLB Teams Betting Big on Young Talent with Early Contract Extensions
Major League Baseball teams are increasingly locking up promising young players with long-term contract extensions early in their careers, a strategy that presents both opportunities and risks for both the teams and the players. These extensions offer young players financial security, but could perhaps limit their earning potential if they develop into stars. For teams, these contracts can be a bargain if the player excels, but a costly mistake if the player fails to live up to expectations.
Red Sox Lead the Charge in Extending Young Stars
The Boston Red Sox have been at the forefront of this trend. In 2024,they signed Ceddanne Rafaela to an eight-year,$50 million extension after just 49 days of MLB service. Shortly after, they inked Kristian campbell to an eight-year, $60 million deal, signaling a clear commitment to securing young talent.
The Risks and Rewards of Long-Term Extensions
These long-term extensions can be a double-edged sword.If a prospect underperforms, the team is stuck paying millions for subpar performance. A prime example is Scott Kingery, who signed a six-year, $24 million extension with the Philadelphia Phillies in 2018 but spent most of the contract in the minor leagues.
Conversely, if a prospect blossoms into a star, the extension can significantly limit their earnings during their prime years. Ozzie Albies of the Atlanta Braves, as an example, has earned $35 million in his career, while Gleyber Torres, who debuted a year later, has earned $18 million more despite a less productive career. The Braves still have two team option years at $7 million per year for Albies. Torres earned $14.2 million last season in his final year of arbitration eligibility and earned $15 million this year on a one-year free agent contract.
Early Security a Blessing for Young Players
One young player said,”This meant the world to my family… It was just about getting a deal done. It was complex. Contracts like that for a young player don’t come around often. For me, to have been put in that situation is a blessing.”
Red Sox Prospects Anthony and Mayer: Extension Candidates?
The boston Red Sox might be wise to consider contract extensions for two of their top prospects, outfielder Roman Anthony and shortstop Marcelo Mayer, building on their commitment to young talent like Ceddanne Rafaela and recent extension of Brayan Bello.Both Anthony and Mayer have shown considerable promise in the minor leagues, making them potential cornerstones for the future.
Roman Anthony: Polished hitter on the Rise
Roman anthony, just 20 years old, is rapidly ascending through the Red Sox system. He’s already reached Triple-A, making him one of the youngest players at that level. Anthony’s elite bat speed translates to hard-hit balls, evidenced by a 90th percentile exit velocity of 109 mph this season. His advanced hitting skills and rapid progression suggest he’s nearing a major league prospect.
Marcelo Mayer: Overcoming Injuries, Displaying Elite Talent
Marcelo Mayer, a highly touted prospect from the 2021 draft, has faced injury setbacks in his professional career.While these injuries might delay his major league arrival compared to Anthony and Bello, his talent is undeniable when healthy. Tho his ground ball rate of 47% is an area for betterment, his fielding and baserunning skills are notable assets.
A future Built on Young Stars?
The Red Sox have a history of investing in established players but have recently demonstrated a willingness to secure young talent. With Anthony and Mayer potentially on the horizon, Boston could be on the verge of building a core of homegrown stars, solidifying their future competitiveness.
Nick Kurtz: Minor League Hitter to Watch
First baseman Nick Kurtz is currently one of the hottest hitters in the minor leagues. Drafted by the Athletics,
Kurtz’s impressive performance has made him a prospect to watch.
MLB Prospects Making Waves: Kurtz, Caglianone, and Rising Pitchers
Several minor league players are rapidly ascending the ranks, showcasing impressive performances that could land them in the major leagues sooner rather than later. Among these rising stars are Oakland Athletics’ first base prospect, Jacob Kurtz, Kansas City Royals’ slugger Jac Caglianone, and a trio of promising right-handed pitchers: Bubba chandler (Pirates), Chase burns (Reds), and Chase Dollander (Rockies).
Jacob Kurtz Dominating Triple-A, Eyes Potential Oakland Opportunity
Jacob Kurtz is turning heads in Triple-A Las Vegas. Through 16 games, the 22-year-old first baseman is hitting with power and consistency, racking up seven home runs and 22 RBIs, accompanied by an impressive 1.134 OPS. While the Pacific Coast League is known for being hitter-friendly, Kurtz’s production is undeniable. The Athletics’ recent use of Brent Rooker in the outfield might open a path for Kurtz to join the major league roster, especially with fellow first base prospect Tyler Soderstrom projected as a top hitter in early 2025. If Kurtz can translate his minor league success to the majors, the A’s could have a significant offensive asset at their new ballpark in West Sacramento.
Jac caglianone’s Power Surge: Ready for the Royals?
Jac Caglianone, the Royals’ sixth overall pick in the 2024 draft, is living up to the hype.Known for his prodigious power, the former Florida Gator, who set the school’s career home run record, has continued his dominance in High-A and the Arizona Fall League. His hot start in Double-A this year includes a scorching 120.9 mph single to the opposite field, a hit that would rank among the top batted balls in the Statcast era. Caglianone has publicly stated his ambition to reach the majors this season. With the Royals demonstrating a commitment to winning, highlighted by bobby Witt Jr.’s 11-year, $288 million extension, Caglianone’s offensive prowess could make him a valuable addition to the team.
Pitching Prospects to Watch: Chandler, Burns, and Dollander
in addition to the power hitters, several right-handed pitching prospects are garnering attention. Bubba Chandler (pirates), Chase Burns (Reds), and Chase Dollander (rockies) are all demonstrating similar potential and growth, making them players to watch within their respective organizations. Although they play for smaller market teams,their talent warrants recognition as potential future impact players.
MLB’s Rising pitching Stars: Extension Talks Get Tricky
As young pitching phenoms rise through the ranks of Major League Baseball, teams face a crucial decision: lock them up long-term or risk losing them to free agency. For several pre-arbitration players, including Paul Skenes, Chase Burns, and Christian Dollander, the window for contract extensions might potentially be closing as their value skyrockets.
Pittsburgh’s Potential Rotation Gem: Jared jones and the Rise of Chandler
The Pittsburgh Pirates are on the cusp of possessing one of baseball’s most formidable starting rotations, potentially featuring Paul Skenes, a healthy Jared Jones, and the rapidly improving Chandler. Chandler’s fastball, already a standout in the minor leagues, has reportedly taken a significant leap forward this season, accompanied by improved command.
Cincinnati’s Prized Acquisition: Chase Burns and his Electric Potential
The Cincinnati Reds demonstrated their belief in Chase Burns by awarding him a $9.25 million signing bonus after selecting him second overall in last year’s draft – a record surpassing Paul Skenes’ $9.2 million. burns’ limited appearances in spring training have only further highlighted his immense potential. The true extent of his dominance, fueled by a fastball and slider both graded at 70, will become clearer as he gains more experience in 2025. Similar to Rhett Lowder,the Reds’ first-round pick in 2023,burns could potentially recieve a call-up to the majors later this season.
Dollander’s Dominance: Strikeouts and Coors Field Challenges
Christian Dollander, a 23-year-old right-hander, has established himself as a strikeout machine, racking up 169 strikeouts across high-A, Double-A, and Triple-A in 2024. his fastball, graded at 70, generated a 20.4% swing-strike rate against opposing hitters. Unlike Burns and Chandler, Dollander has already made his major league debut, striking out 13 batters in 10.2 innings. Though, Dollander faces a challenge beyond his control: pitching at Coors Field, home of the Colorado Rockies. The Rockies’ history of committing financially to pitchers is spotty, with their last major investment being Mike Hampton’s eight-year, $121 million deal in 2000. Hampton was traded in 2002 after struggling in Denver.
Pre-Arbitration Extension dilemma
as these players achieve significant success in MLB, a delicate balance shifts between the security of a long-term extension and the risk of potentially limiting future earnings. The arbitration process and eventual free agency loom large, influencing the decisions of both players and teams. The deadline pressures of arbitration exchange dates, the trade deadline, and the expiration of collective bargaining agreements only intensify these negotiations [[1](https://www.mlb.com/news/in-season-extensions-breakdown)]. Soft deadlines, meant to pressure teams, are common in extension talks [[1](https://www.mlb.com/news/in-season-extensions-breakdown)].
Paul Skenes: Rising Star, Rising Price Tag
skenes’ rapid ascent to stardom, including an All-star Game appearance in his rookie season, may make it nearly impossible for the Pirates to offer an extension that both parties find agreeable. The financial commitment required to secure Skenes’ future services is likely to be substantial.
MLB: Jóvenes Estrellas en la Mira de Extensiones Contractuales Millonarias
En el béisbol de las Grandes Ligas, varios jóvenes talentos están emergiendo como candidatos principales para extensiones contractuales lucrativas. Sus habilidades excepcionales y potencial de superestrellas los colocan en una posición privilegiada para negociar acuerdos lucrativos que podrían redefinir el panorama financiero de sus respectivos equipos.
Paul Skenes: El lanzador Promesa de los Pirates con Proyección de Récord
Paul Skenes, la primera selección general del draft por los Pittsburgh Pirates, podría estar en camino de asegurar un contrato aún más grande que la extensión récord de ocho años y $106.75 millones firmada por Bryan Reynolds. El talento y el potencial de Skenes son innegables, lo que justifica una posible inversión masiva por parte de la organización de los Pirates.
Elly De La Cruz: El Diamante Dominicano de los Rojos listo Para Brillar
El campocorto dominicano Elly De La Cruz, de los Cincinnati Reds, firmó por una modesta cantidad de $65,000 en 2018.Ahora, con 23 años, De La Cruz se ha convertido en un supertalento de cinco herramientas, posicionándose como uno de los campocortos más emocionantes de la MLB. Su inminente agencia libre a los 27 años le otorga un poder de negociación significativo, lo que podría traducirse en un contrato gigantesco.
Jacob wilson: El Bateador Consistente de los Athletics que Busca Asegurar su Futuro
Jacob Wilson, campocorto de los Oakland Athletics, ha demostrado consistentemente su habilidad para batear. Tras un notable último año en Grand canyon con un promedio de .411 y solo cinco ponches,Wilson continuó impresionando en las ligas menores,bateando .401. Con un prometedor inicio de temporada en 2025, Wilson, de 23 años, se perfila como un fuerte contendiente para el premio al Novato del Año, lo que podría acelerar las conversaciones sobre una extensión con los Athletics.
junior Caminero: El Nuevo Prospecto Estrella de los Rays
Los Tampa Bay Rays tienen una reputación bien establecida por desarrollar talento desde adentro, particularmente en el mercado internacional. Junior Caminero es el último prospecto en florecer dentro de su sistema. Si bien los Rays no son conocidos por grandes derroches, previamente extendieron a wander Franco con un contrato significativo antes de sus problemas legales, lo que sugiere que podrían estar dispuestos a invertir en el futuro de Caminero.
MLB Teams Eye Contract Extensions for Key Young Talents
Several Major League Baseball teams are reportedly considering contract extensions for their young, promising players, aiming to secure their talent for the long term. These potential deals highlight a growing trend among MLB franchises to lock in pre-arbitration players who have demonstrated significant potential early in their careers.
Oneil Cruz, SS, Pittsburgh Pirates: Extension Talks Loom
The Pittsburgh Pirates are reportedly contemplating a contract extension for shortstop Oneil Cruz. Despite a season-ending injury in 2023, the 25-year-old Cruz possesses immense talent, and the Pirates are eager to keep him in Pittsburgh.While his performance in 2024 was inconsistent, his raw power and potential remain undeniable. Prior off-field issues had previously threatened to derail his career, a full, productive season could pave the way for long-term commitment from the Pirates.
Riley Greene, OF, Detroit tigers: A Potential Cornerstone
Outfielder riley Greene of the detroit Tigers is also a prime candidate for a contract extension.Greene,the No. 5 overall pick in the 2019 draft, has lived up to expectations, showcasing his abilities with 24 home runs and 74 RBIs last season, earning his first All-Star selection.While the Tigers have shown a willingness to extend pre-arbitration players, as seen with Colt Keith, they must also consider the future contract of reigning AL Cy Young winner Tarik Skubal, who becomes a free agent after the 2026 season. Greene, who experienced a slow start in 2025, has proven that he can be an impactful player.
Could a team regret offering an extension to a player who doesn’t perform?
MLB Contract Extensions: Yoru Burning Questions answered
This article dives deep into teh trend of MLB teams offering long-term contract extensions to young, promising players. Here’s a breakdown of the key questions and insights:
Q&A
Q: what’s the basic idea behind these early contract extensions?
A: Teams are trying to secure their young stars before they hit their prime and become incredibly expensive or leave in free agency. They hope to get a “bargain” for the player’s best years.
Q: What are the risks and rewards for the teams?
A: The rewards are a possibly team-friendly contract if the player performs as was to be expected (or even better). The risks are that if the player doesn’t live up to expectations, the team is stuck paying a lot for underperformance. A prime example is Scott Kingery, who signed a 6-year, $24M deal that didn’t pan out.
Q: What are the benefits for the players?
A: Financial security! These contracts give players guaranteed money and stability early in their careers. It can be a blessing for the player and their family.
Q: Who are some notable examples of players who have received early extensions?
A: Jackson Chourio (Brewers),Luis Robert Jr., Evan White, Eloy Jiménez, scott Kingery, and Jon Singleton. More recently, Ceddanne Rafaela and Kristian Campbell (Red sox), and Colt Keith (Tigers).
Q: The Red Sox seem to be leading the charge in these early extensions. Why?
A: The Red Sox are attempting to build a core of homegrown talent. They recently extended Ceddanne Rafaela and Kristian Campbell and considered extensions for Roman Anthony and Marcelo mayer.
Q: Who are some other young players who might be in line for extensions?
A: Oneil cruz (Pirates), Riley Greene (Tigers), and Jacob Wilson (Athletics), and also prospects like Bubba Chandler (pirates), Chase Burns (Reds), and Chase Dollander (Rockies).
Q: what’s the situation with Paul Skenes?
A: Skenes’ rapid rise to stardom could make it very difficult for the Pirates to offer an extension that both parties agree to. His price tag is likely to be massive. He had an All-Star season in his rookie year.
Q: What about the challenges of pitching at Coors Field?
A: Christian Dollander faces the unique challenge of pitching at Coors Field in Denver. The thin air and hitter-friendly environment can make life difficult for pitchers, and the Rockies’ history of long-term commitments to pitchers has been spotty.
Q: What are some key things that influence these extension talks?
A: Several factors influence extension talks: the arbitration process,the looming specter of free agency,and the pressures of deadlines like the trade deadline and the expiration of collective bargaining agreements.
Q: What is the significance of the Bobby Witt jr. and Bryan Reynolds contracts?
A: They represent how teams are trying to lock down their core. Witt is the recent winner of an 11-year, $288 million contract, while Reynolds signed a record-breaking 8-year, $106.75 million contract with the Pirates.
Trivia: Did you know that Elly De La Cruz signed for only $65,000 in 2018? Now he’s a five-tool superstar!
Actionable Advice: Keep an eye on these young players! they could become the faces of their franchises and provide exciting seasons for years to come. The evolving landscape of MLB contracts is something to watch closely as teams try to build their future.
