Chris Rock’s Juan Soto joke on SNL sparks controversy

United States.- Chris Rock made waves during his appearance on Saturday Night Live with a sarcastic comment about the New York Mets’ historic signing of Dominican baseball star Juan Soto. Rock joked that “there would be fewer immigrants in the U.S. if they weren’t paid so many millions to play baseball,” referencing the Mets’ $765 million deal with Soto. He quipped, “Steve Cohen bought a Dominican for 700 million,” which elicited both laughter and some uneasy murmurs from the audience.

The joke, in line with Rock’s signature irreverent humor, poked fun at the staggering contract that will see Soto, at 26, earn an average of $51 million per year over the next several seasons. This deal, the largest in professional sports, could rise to $54 million annually by the fifth year. While some applauded Rock for addressing capitalism and immigration with bold humor, others criticized him for reinforcing stereotypes about Dominican players in Major League Baseball.

Neither Mets owner Steve Cohen nor Soto have commented on Rock’s remark, but the controversy has continued to stir discussion on social media. As Soto prepares to become the highest-paid player in MLB history, his contract is further solidifying his legacy both on and off the field.