Announced Tuesday, the agreement tasks Rimas with overseeing Tatis' marketing, brand relations, and other services to expand his portfolio as an athlete, businessman, and philanthropist. This move comes despite the agency's leaders facing suspensions from the Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) due to ethical violations.
Tatis, who signed a historic $340 million, 14-year contract with the Padres in 2021 negotiated by MVP Sports under agent Dan Lozano, remains a central figure for the San Diego baseball team, but this new partnership with Rimas - also representing stars like Ronald Acuña Jr., Ezequiel Tovar, and Francisco Alvarez - has ignited debate in a city passionate about its Padres.
The deal highlights Rimas Sports' growing influence, a partnership involving Bad Bunny and executives Noah Assad and Jonathan Miranda, though it is barred from negotiating player contracts. Controversy surrounds the agency after the MLBPA revoked agent William Arroyo's certification in April 2024 and denied certifications to Assad and Miranda over a $200,000 interest-free loan and a $19,500 gift, fining the agency $400,000 for misconduct.Ìý
Arbitrator Ruth M. Moscovitch upheld five-year suspensions for Assad and Miranda in October, reducing Arroyo's to three years, yet U.S. District Judge Jennifer H. Rearden in Manhattan noted no response was filed by the February 18 deadline to challenge the union's decision. This raises questions about the agency's credibility, with some San Diegans wondering if Tatis' choice reflects a bold business move or a risky gamble given the ongoing legal shadows.
For Padres fans, Tatis' off-field ventures are as compelling as his on-field prowess, despite a rocky 20-month period in 2021-2022 marked by a suspension due to PED and injuries due to multiple motorbike accidents that dimmed his once-limitless future. The Rimas deal could leverage Bad Bunny’s global appeal to boost Tatis’ brand locally and beyond, potentially aligning with San Diego’s diverse cultural fabric.Ìý
For Padres fans, Tatis' off-field ventures are as compelling as his on-field prowess, despite a rocky 20-month period in 2021-2022 marked by a suspension due to PED and injuries due to multiple motorbike accidents that dimmed his once-limitless future. The Rimas deal could leverage Bad Bunny’s global appeal to boost Tatis’ brand locally and beyond, potentially aligning with San Diego’s diverse cultural fabric.Ìý
However, the establishment narrative of a seamless partnership is challenged by the MLBPA's stance, suggesting potential conflicts of interest or oversight issues. While Rimas aims to enhance Tatis' marketability, the lack of resolution in the union dispute leaves room for skepticism. As the 2025 season approaches, San Diego baseball enthusiasts will watch closely to see how this controversial alliance shapes Tatis' legacy with the Padres.
