Juan Soto will reportedly wear No. 22 with the New York Mets after all.
Mark Feinsand of MLB.com reported Wednesday that Soto's deal with the National League East team allows for him to wear the only jersey number he has ever known in Major League Baseball.
That is notable because Christian Arnold of the New York Post explained in a Tuesday story that Soto might have to work out a deal with Brett Baty to take the No. 22.
What's more, a rule in the collective bargaining agreement stated that Soto or someone on his behalf would have needed to purchase the existing inventory of Baty No. 22 jerseys and memorabilia to facilitate the number switch.
Alas, the situation seems to have been resolved, and the four-time All-Star will wear the same number he did with the Washington Nationals, San Diego Padres and New York Yankees.
Anthony DiComo of MLB.com noted the 15-year, $765 million contract was finalized Wednesday following a physical. It features a full no-trade clause, a $75 million signing bonus, no deferred money and an opt-out after five years.
However, the Mets could void that opt-out clause if they increase the average annual value of the final 10 years from $51 million to $55 million.
Such a commitment will put Soto firmly under the spotlight as the Mets pursue a World Series title, but he has done nothing but thrive thus far with a resume that includes a championship, batting title, five Silver Sluggers and four All-Star selections at just 26 years old.
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