Mookie Betts Asked For $420 Million Contracts From Red Sox [Rumor]

Boston Red Sox outfielder Mookie Betts had one of the greatest individual seasons ever in 2018, winning the AL MVP award while leading the team to a World Series Championship -- their fourth in the 21st century.

Betts, one of the game's few five-tool players who has no weaknesses in his game, is slated to hit free agency after the 2020 season. But he's been the subject of nonstop trade rumors, with the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers widely involved in discussions.

Boston's payroll has consistently ranked near the top over the past two decades. But it's evident that they won't be able to reach a long-term deal with Betts, and whether he's traded or not, it's safe to say that he won't be with the Red Sox in 2021.

According to a report from Lou Merloni, the Red Sox gave Betts a 10-year offer worth $300 million. However, their franchise star responded with a request of $420 million over 12 years.

Los Angeles Angels outfielder Mike Trout became the first $400 million player last year, signing a 12-year extension worth $426.5 million. Trout is unquestionably the best player in baseball, so the record-setting deal was well-deserved.

Related: Mookie Betts Trade To Dodgers Or Padres Appear "Likely" [Rumor]

Betts received a record $27 million in arbitration from the Red Sox earlier this month. Now, the organization has to decide if they want to stay competitive and keep Betts for one last shot at a championship, or if they'd like to get valuable prospects in return.

Red Sox ownership has continually stated their goal to cut back on payroll in order to avoid paying the luxury tax again. They haven't been able to clear any serious dollars this offseason, so trading Betts would go a long way in getting them below the luxury tax mark.

The regular season is just two months away now, so we'll find out in short time if the Red Sox keep Betts for opening day. The only certainty is that he'll be playing elsewhere next year, barring the unlikely event of the two sides agreeing to an extension.

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