It's the moment that most Philadelphia Phillies fans saw coming, but still aren't ready for.
On Jan. 23, the Milwaukee Brewers finalized a deal with first baseman Rhys Hoskins for the next two seasons, totaling $34 million. Now more details of the recently signed contract are available. Per Spotrac, the deal includes two opt-outs, one after the first season for Hoskins and another mutual option for the third season.
Here's how Hoskins' contract breaks down, from what we know at this point.
He'll earn $12 million in 2024. If Hoskins invokes his opt-out option after the season, he'll receive a $4 million buyout.
Hoskins' salary will bump up to $18 million in year two, with another $4 million buyout after the season if both parties don't agree upon the mutual option.
If he sticks around Milwaukee for 2026, he'll bring in another $18 million and become an unrestricted free agent after the season.
With one of their first major free agent signings in recent memory, the Brewers faithful are already getting amped up.
You want a first baseman? You GOT a first baseman pic.twitter.com/R5E2cK24S6
— Milwaukee Brewers (@Brewers) January 26, 2024
New contract is favorable to the former Phillies slugger
The contract is structured in favor of the 30-year-old coming off a torn ACL that caused him to miss the 2023 season. Hoskins will have the opportunity to prove himself over the next one or two seasons and earn a longer-term deal, but he'll also have the security of $34 million in his back pocket if things go south.
Milwaukee's front office also protected itself in case of lingering problems from his injuries or underperformance by including the mutual option for the third season.
If things go well, the Brewers will have a solid middle-of-the-order bat for the next three seasons at a bargain. If not, the most they would owe would be $34 million over the next two years.
Hoskins, who will be 31 on Opening Day, will take his power with him to the Brewers, where he'll add that element to a young lineup that finished tied for 24th in the league in home runs last season. He'll have the opportunity to be their everyday first baseman and provide veteran leadership to a slew of young players — the Philly favorite's energy and enthusiasm did a ton for the team and the city during his time in Philadelphia.
With question marks surrounding his health, it will be important for him to show that he still has the power stroke to have success with his new team. If Hoskins can perform like he did during his days in Philadelphia, he'll have another chance for a big contract in the 2025 offseason.