Padres discussed contract extension with star outfielder during offseason

Free agency is only two seasons away for star outfielder Juan Soto. With that in mind, the San Diego Padres reportedly discussed a potential contract extension with the two-time All-Star during the offseason. 

According to MLB insider Jon Heyman of the New York Post, talks between the two sides didn't go far. 

"The Padres did check on Juan Soto regarding a possible extension in the winter," Heyman wrote. "But those talks never got off the ground." 

The Padres are pretty fond of Soto and eager to lock him up. Though, as Heyman added, the distance between San Diego and the Dominican Republic, where Soto's mother lives, might not be what the slugger is looking for in a long-term home. Also, Soto won't come cheap, especially if he hits the open market. 

"Agent Scott Boras views Soto as among the greatest free agents ever, right there with Alex Rodriguez," Heyman wrote. 

Rodriguez famously inked a 10-year, $252 million deal with the Texas Rangers in 2000. At the time, it was the largest ever signed. Boras believes Soto will command a similar record-setting contract, and he's not alone. 

In March, Jim Bowden of The Athletic predicted Soto would ultimately agree to a 16-year, $500 million extension with the Padres. 

Last July, Soto rejected a 15-year, $440 million extension from the Washington Nationals. On Aug. 2, the Nationals traded Soto and Josh Bell to the Padres in exchange for five prospects and Luke Voit. 

Soto signed a one-year, $23 million contract with the Padres in January, avoiding arbitration. 

So far this season, the 24-year-old is off to a sluggish start by his standards. Through seven games, Soto has a homer and four RBI, slashing .160/.300/.320.