The New York Yankees secured the services of generational talent Juan Soto in a highly risky and blockbuster seven-player trade deal. While the term of the contract was as short as one year, the Bronx Bombers willingly took the risk in a bid to pursue the World Series championship this year itself.
That being said, Juan Soto’s previous team, the San Diego Padres, was initially reluctant to part ways with the slugger, given his status and the team’s intention to compete for a championship. However, the club owner’s death apparently changed the scenario completely, as revealed by Soto’s agent himself, Scott Boras.
Juan Soto Heard Padres’ Mega Extension Offer Until Owner Peter Seidler’s Unfortunate Demise!
San Diego Padres moved from being a mid-cap team to one of the biggest spenders in MLB courtesy of the vision of one man named Peter Seidler. Peter believed in winnings and reflected on his intentions by stacking up a $250 million payroll in 2023. Not only that, the Padres, under Seidler’s guidance, acquired generational talent Juan Soto through a trade with the Washington Nationals. Moreover, as Soto’s contract neared its term, Peter Seidler apparently approached Soto’s camp with a mega extension offer. The slugger’s agent, Scott Boras, told insider Jon Heyman that Peter wanted to pursue Soto for the long term, and the two parties apparently held discussions about the same. However, due to his deteriorating health, things couldn’t work out.
A few weeks before the San Diego Padres traded Juan Soto to the New York Yankees, Peter Seidler sadly passed away from a long-term illness. That proved to be the final straw for Soto in seeking an exit, as he was apparently not happy being a Padre. “Soto really liked the owner and was not unhappy as a Padre,” said Boras to Heyman. Having said that, the agent added that the generational talent is enjoying his time with the Yankees this year. He loves the city of New York and cannot wait to set foot in the Bronx for his home debut. Notably, Soto is an impending free agent and is likely to avoid signing an extension contract with the Bronx Bombers. He wants to start the bid at a $500 million minimum, which will seemingly push Hal Steinbrenner and co out of contention even before the free agency begins.
Soto Ready To Feel At Home In Bronx!
Meanwhile, Juan Soto is set to make his home debut for the New York Yankees later today at the Yankee Stadium situated in the Bronx. The Yanks are scheduled to host the Toronto Blue Jays to mark their first home series of the year, and the lineup features Soto starting at right field.
Notably, ahead of his home debut, Juan Soto told Yanks Magazine that fielding in Yankee Stadium will feel like home. He is looking forward to performing in front of the extended native Dominican community. And the slugger is overall excited to feel the vibe of the electric atmosphere. To hear cheers instead of boos would be a surreal experience for Soto as he gears up for his home debut.
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