In a groundbreaking move, the Milwaukee Brewers are reportedly nearing a contract extension with top outfield prospect Jackson Chourio, according to sources. The deal, expected to be finalized today, will set a new record for the largest contract ever offered to a player prior to their major league debut.

The agreement, which guarantees eight years and nearly $80 million, also includes two club options. This impressive offer surpasses the six-year, $50 million guarantee given to Luis Robert Jr. by the White Sox before the 2020 season.

At just 19 years old, Chourio has already made a name for himself in the baseball world. Considered a consensus top-three prospect, he has shown exceptional talent and potential. Only Orioles shortstop Jackson Holliday consistently ranks higher than Chourio among prospect outlets.

Chourio signed with the Brewers in 2021 after an impressive debut in the Dominican Summer League, where he boasted a remarkable .286/.386/.447 slash line in 45 games at the age of 17. He continued to shine in his stateside debut, delivering an outstanding .288/.342/.538 slash line across Single-A, High-A, and Double-A levels.

During the 2023 season, Chourio solidified his status as an elite prospect, slashing .280/.336/.467 in 559 plate appearances in Double-A. He briefly made an appearance in Triple-A, proving his abilities with a slash line of .333/.375/.476 in just 24 plate appearances.

With the imminent contract extension, it is highly likely that Chourio will start the 2024 season in the Brewers' lineup, foregoing a stint in Triple-A. However, the team already has a crowded outfield mix, including Christian Yelich, Garrett Mitchell, Joey Wiemer, Sal Frelick, Tyrone Taylor, and Blake Perkins. Chourio will need to showcase his skills during big league camp this spring to secure a spot.

By securing Chourio's services for the next eight-to-ten seasons, the Brewers gain additional security with their promising young talent. This extension comes at a crucial time for the team, as they have faced difficult decisions regarding other star players approaching free agency, including Brandon Woodruff, Willy Adames, and Corbin Burnes.

Regarding potential financial implications, the Brewers have more than enough room under the luxury tax threshold, with an excess of $100 million, according to RosterResource. Chourio's contract, with an estimated average annual value of around $10 million, will not put a strain on the team's finances.

While the deal with Chourio may not directly impact the team's decisions regarding Burnes and Adames, it provides a sense of stability in an uncertain future. By securing the young outfielder, the Brewers aim to avoid a similar situation down the road and continue their pursuit of success in the coming seasons.

As the financial details are being finalized and Chourio undergoes a physical, all signs point to an exciting future for both the Brewers organization and their highly touted prospect.