The young talent, Jackson Chourio, at 19 years old, has secured a whopping $80 million deal with the Milwaukee Brewers, even before making his professional debut, as revealed by MLB expert Jon Heyman of the New York Post. This eight-year agreement, inclusive of team options, sets a new benchmark for minor leaguers, exceeding the previous high set by Luis Robert’s $50 million contract with the Chicago White Sox in 2020.
The Brewers’ surprising move to commit such a significant sum to Chourio showcases their unwavering confidence in the promising centerfielder, who is set to celebrate his 20th birthday next March. The team, known for its restrained spending in the past, demonstrates a shift in strategy with this bold move.
Chourio officially joined the Brewers in January 2021, just ahead of his 17th birthday, and is highly regarded as the second-best prospect in baseball by MLB.com, trailing only Jackson Holliday of the Baltimore Orioles. The Brewers are currently reveling in a successful season, with 92 wins and capturing the NL Central division title for the second time in three years. However, their postseason dreams were crushed by the Arizona Diamondbacks in a Wild Card Round sweep.
Notably, Craig Counsell, the Brewers’ manager, departed to lead the Chicago Cubs, leading to bench coach Pat Murphy’s promotion as the new manager.
