Let's talk about the baseball thing from Juan Soto's perspective.
The Nats wouldn't extend him and didn't agree with his financial ask in March.
So, Soto was scheduled to earn $629,400 this year. At half, he's down to just under $315,000.
Owners want to negotiate salaries lower than that. But let's ignore this aspect for now.
Soto has an agent who will take money. Also, many states and Canada throw on taxes in addition to his federal income.
He'll probably net $180-$200k this year as a reasonable scenario.
Juan Soto is about two years away from a $100+ million contract and generational wealth. Why in God's name would he risk that for what he'll earn PER GAME in a few years?