The New York Yankees traded Juan Soto from the San Diego Padres earlier this off-season in a high-risk deal. The team sent five major league-ready players to attain Soto and Trent Grisham. However, the front office was well aware of what they were getting themselves into and made a conscious decision.
The major concern revolving around Juan Soto was his contract status. Soto will be entering his walk year this season and is eligible to enter free agency in 2025. Meanwhile, Brian Cashman, the Yankees general manager, recently addressed Soto’s future uncertainty and also weighs on the possibility of a potential contract extension with the superstar slugger.
Brian Cashman Expects Juan Soto To Depart After 2024 Season
Juan Soto, the 25-year-old hitting phenom, is set to become one of the most coveted free agents in recent memory following the conclusion of the upcoming season. He was traded to the New York Yankees this off-season. However, it remains under control for the 2024 year only. Notably, the front office was fully aware of the trade implications. And yet chose to sign off on it. Meanwhile, general manager Brian Cashman recently addressed Soto’s future situation with the club and offered a realistic opinion. Brian admitted that with Soto, it’s a one-year guarantee situation. “We recognized when we went into this situation that the odds are that it’s a one-year situation before free agency,” said Cashman.
Not only that, the GM said he does not see anything stopping Juan Soto from electing free agency next year. However, Brian Cashman refused to squash little ounces of hope. He said the team and the slugger are focused on maximizing the current season. If Juan Soto manages to post a successful season, then perhaps the two parties could sit at a table and discuss contract extension potential. “We’re just looking to see if we collectively can crush it together, have an amazing walk year,” added Cashman. However, realistically, the scenario seems far-fetched. Soto’s market value, irrespective of his 2024 season performance, could soar to $500 million. There is no way Hal Steinbrenner can afford Soto whilst Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole are sitting on a $300+ million contract. Nonetheless, as the upcoming season unfolds, the dynamics of the free-agent landscape may evolve.
Yankees Open To Pursue Starters But With A Twist!
Meanwhile, according to Jon Heyman, the New York Yankees continue to remain active in the pitching market despite the commencement of spring training. Heyman added that the Bronx Bombers intend to acquire a formidable starting pitcher before the 2024 season opening day. However, the front office has some restrictions and conditions in that regard.
Apparently, the New York Yankees do not wish to overpay any pitcher of any caliber whatsoever. For instance, Blake Snell has asked for a $270 million deal, which the Yanks would not cash out under any circumstances. Even in trade deals, rivals are targeting top prospect Spencer Jones. And the Bronx Bombers remain unwilling to part with Jones and suggested that he is off the table for this off-season.
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