Who Has A $300 Million Contract In Baseball? The Shocking Answer

Manny Machado holds the record for the largest free-agent contract in baseball history, a 10-year, $300 million deal he signed with the San Diego Padres in 2019. While Bryce Harper did sign a 13-year, $330 million deal with the Philadelphia Phillies just weeks later, Harper’s contract was a bit different because it came from a team that was already in win-now mode. Machado, on the other hand, signed with a Padres team that was looking to rebuild and compete in the future.

Both Machado and Harper have gone on to have successful careers, but Machado’s contract still stands as the largest free-agent contract in baseball history. The deal was considered a major coup for the Padres, who were hoping to attract a big-name player and establish themselves as a contender in the National League West. Machado has lived up to expectations, providing the Padres with a dynamic and consistent presence at third base.

It’s important to note that while Machado’s contract is the largest in MLB history, it’s not necessarily the best value for money. The Padres have been a good team since Machado signed, but they haven’t been able to make it to the World Series yet. It remains to be seen whether Machado’s contract will ultimately be worth the money, but it’s certainly one of the most significant free-agent contracts in recent baseball history.