In a headline that sounds more like science fiction than sports news, social media lit up today with claims that San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt just signed an $88.5 billion contract with a team in Los Angeles. The stunning figure left fans, analysts, and fact-checkers scrambling to make sense of the story.
So… is it true?
Let’s Break It Down:
1. The Number is Outrageous
Let’s be clear: $88.5 billion would be the largest contract in not just sports history, but in global employment history—larger than the GDP of many countries. For comparison, the largest sports contract ever signed (as of 2025) belongs to Lionel Messi, with deals in the range of hundreds of millions, not billions.
2. Mike Shildt is Under Contract with the Padres
Mike Shildt, who became the San Diego Padres manager in late 2023, is under contract and currently coaching the team. There have been no credible reports from ESPN, MLB.com, or any major sports outlet confirming any deal involving him moving to Los Angeles.
3. No Los Angeles Team Could Afford That
Even if a Los Angeles-based team (like the Dodgers or Angels) wanted to hire Shildt, a billion-dollar deal is entirely unrealistic, let alone one worth $88.5 billion. MLB team payrolls typically range between $100 million to $300 million annually for the entire roster—not for a single coach.
4. It’s Likely Satire or Misinformation
This appears to be either:
- A satirical headline meant to poke fun at bloated sports contracts.
- A clickbait or AI-generated article crafted to go viral.
- Or simply a mistaken or manipulated post making the rounds on social media.
Final Verdict: False
There is no truth to the claim that Mike Shildt signed any kind of multi-billion-dollar deal with a Los Angeles team. This headline is pure fiction, with no factual backing.
As always, it’s a good reminder to double-check sports headlines, especially when they involve astronomical figures or dramatic transfers.
If you’re seeing this story pop up on your feed—now you know: it’s not just a touchdown… it’s a total fumble. 🏈🚫
Want help spotting fake sports news or rumors in the future? Just ask—I’ve got you covered.
