Juan Soto says goodbye to the Nationals after trade to Padres

“I will always feel honored to have been a National,” Soto added. “The accomplishment of winning the franchise’s first World Series title in 2019, and to play for such supportive fans during the last five years will never be forgotten.”

Soto made his MLB debut at the age of 19 years old. At the age of 20, he emerged as the Nationals' primary cleanup hitter as the club claimed its first World Series championship. He became the youngest NL batting champion at 21. Last season at the age of 22, he led MLB with 145 walks while still hitting .313 with a .999 OPS.

Soto seemed destined to be the franchise’s first homegrown Hall of Famer. The Nationals embarked on a rebuild centered around Soto. However, the young star turned down at least three offers from the Nationals for a contract extension. The latest known offer occurred in July and consisted of a historic 15-year deal worth $440 million.

Washington ultimately decided to trade Soto despite having 2.5 years of team control remaining. The Padres ponied up a package the Nats couldn’t refuse ahead of Tuesday’s trade deadline. Now, once tabbed as the present and future face of the Nationals, Soto is a Padre.

“To my Nats Fans: since day one I’ve always had the feeling you would have a special space in my heart but the appreciation that I have for you went over my expectations,” Soto tweeted. “Thank you for being such a great family to me. With Love & Gratitude… Forever Yours, Juan Soto.”