Hosmer heading to Padres
Post staff report
A slow offseason didn’t stop Eric Hosmer from cashing in with the largest contract in Padres history.
The former Royals first baseman agreed to an eightyear deal with an opt-out clause after the fifth year, according to reports. The front-loaded contact is worth approximately $140 million, with Hosmer receiving $20 million for each of the first five years and $13 million each of the next three years, according to Bleacher Report. Hosmer also receives a $5 million signing bonus.
It exceeds the six-year $83 million deal first baseman/ outfielder Wil Myers sign with San Diego in 2017. The two briefly played together in the Royals’ system in Single-A.
Hosmer, a four-time Gold Glove winner, posted a .318/ .385/.498 slashline last season with 94 RBIs, 98 runs scored and six steals. He also helped the Royals reach back-to-back World Series, including beating the Mets in 2015.
The Padres, who also added veterans Chase Headley and Freddy Galvis this offseason, were considered the favorites to land Hosmer. San Diego’s payroll now is projected to be around $90 million.
The Royals have lost two of their three prized free agents with center fielder Lorenzo Cain signing with the Brewers and Hosmer now with the Padres.
That leaves third baseman Mike Moustakas, whose chances of returning to Kansas City may have improved after the Hosmer deal. He also has been linked to the Yankees and Braves.