With speculation surrounding Juan Soto’s future in 2025 and beyond, the impending free agent is not focusing on a contract during the current season. The New York Yankees, along with other interested teams like the Dodgers, are uncertain whether Soto’s time in the Bronx will be long-term or temporary until the season concludes.
During the summer, Soto mentioned in Spanish, “We’ll be on the lookout for the Yankees in the offseason, and we’ll listen to all their offers. And we’ll see what happens.”
It appears that Soto will be exploring different contract offers.
The Mets are viewed as the Yankees’ primary competition in signing Soto this offseason. Mets owner Steve Cohen’s resources and strong desire to win could intensify the bidding war.
Other teams reportedly interested in Soto, as per ESPN’s Jorge Castillo, include the Philadelphia Phillies, Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, and Los Angeles Dodgers. While the Washington Nationals are considering bringing back Soto, it may require ownership to offer more than they have in the past.
Previously, Soto turned down a 15-year, $440 million contract from the Nationals, without deferred payments. This decision led to his trade to the Padres for prospects. Now, Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, are seeking a much larger deal.
Soto stated, “I let him handle his part, and I handle mine. I believe that’s the best approach. I focus on what I understand best, in everything I do. He focuses on his expertise. That’s how we’ve worked, and we’re comfortable with it.”
While Boras manages the negotiations, Soto seeks advice from Aaron Judge. Judge faced a similar decision two years ago – stay with the Yankees or explore other options?
Judge said, “I advised him early on to focus on his game and not get distracted by the noise. It will all work out in the end. I understood how challenging it was when I went through the same situation. I didn’t want it brought up every day or every month. It’s about focusing on your game.”
The Dodgers stand to gain from adding Soto to their already talented lineup. However, his asking price is expected to exceed $500 million and could rival Shohei Ohtani’s 10-year, $700 million deal. If the Dodgers are willing to meet his demands, a deal might be possible.
Photo Credit: Rafael Suanes-USA TODAY Sports
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