Juan Soto, a critical contributor to the New York Yankees’ first World Series appearance since 2009, had an outstanding season. He belted a career-high 41 home runs, maintained a .288 batting average, posted a .989 OPS, and led the American League with 128 runs scored.
With these numbers, Soto’s market value has soared, making his potential new contract a record-breaking proposition likely exceeding $500 million. Meanwhile, to initiate the pursuit of extensions, the New York Yankees met Juan Soto last week in California. At the recent owner’s meeting, Hal Steinbrenner spills beans on the inside conversation with the generational star.
Hal Steinbrenner Highlights Payroll Issue After Meeting Juan Soto
The New York Yankees are navigating a high-stakes offseason with their pursuit of superstar outfielder Juan Soto, as confirmed by owner Hal Steinbrenner. In a meeting held recently in California, the Yankees’ top brass, including general manager Brian Cashman, manager Aaron Boone, and others, pitched their vision to the 26-year-old slugger, emphasizing his pivotal role in their 2024 success. Steinbrenner described the meeting as productive, featuring “very honest back-and-forth dialogue,” but refrained from sharing specifics about offers or proposals. He highlighted that Soto inquired about the Yankees’ player development system, signaling his interest in their long-term vision. However, he tempered optimism, stating, “We’ll be in the mix. I’ll leave it at that.”
Notably, the New York Yankees face stiff competition from rivals such as the New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, Boston Red Sox, and Dodgers, all of whom have met with Soto. The Mets, backed by owner Steve Cohen’s immense financial resources, are seen as the Yankees’ most formidable opponent. Steinbrenner acknowledged the challenge posed by wealthy ownership groups but emphasized that the Yankees “have the ability to sign any player we want.” Steinbrenner noted the Yankees’ improved financial position heading into the offseason, with approximately $80 million in free agents coming off the books. However, he cautioned that the team’s recent payroll levels, which exceeded $300 million, are not sustainable long-term. “It doesn’t mean in any given year I can’t do what I want to do,” he said, suggesting flexibility for short-term splurges. The Yankees’ approach to Soto’s free agency remains uncertain. While Steinbrenner expressed a willingness to meet again, he acknowledged the urgency of deciding before other key free agents are signed.
Mets To Outbid Yankees For Soto?
The bidding war for free-agent slugger Juan Soto has intensified, with MLB insider Jon Heyman suggesting the New York Mets are the current favorites to sign the All-Star outfielder. During a Bleacher Report stream, Heyman cited the Mets’ financial muscle, led by billionaire owner Steve Cohen, as a key advantage, describing the team’s recent meeting with Soto as highly positive.
“Steve Cohen is there. I think they had a very good meeting,” Heyman said. According to reports, Cohen is prepared to “go full blast” to secure Soto and is even willing to exceed competing offers by $50 million, as shared by Yankees announcer Michael Kay. While Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner has emphasized his team’s ability to compete for any player, insiders question whether he will match Cohen’s potential $600 million-plus offer for the 26-year-old superstar.
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