Generational star Juan Soto, who was traded by the New York Yankees this off-season, will be entering free agency in 2025. Despite a strong debut in pinstripes, Soto is unlikely to accept any mid-season extension plea as a market value of $500 million awaits him in the next off-season.
Having said that, the New York Yankees will more or less pursue Juan Soto aggressively next off-season. However, with unsustainable payroll posing as a major roadblock, the Yankee front office will to sort out their priorities and will be left with no money to spend elsewhere, which could eventually cost them an elite closer.
Clay Holmes Unlikely To Return Next Year As Yankees Prioritise Juan Soto
The New York Yankees front office will be required to make tough decisions when heading into next year’s free agency. The top hierarchy will have to manage the unsustainable payroll alongside prioritizing generational talent Juan Soto’s $500 million extension deal. Needless to say, the team might be forced to cut off some players to make space on the payroll for the mighty Soto. And one of the many scapegoats could be closer Clay Holmes. The relief pitcher will be eligible to enter free agency next year and has a lower chance of getting an extension deal. “I think stuff will work out when it needs to,” Holmes said on his future in MLB.
Notably, Clay Holmes has been a dependable closer for the New York Yankees. This year, he made it to the All-Star team for the second time in his career owing to a remarkable 20-game scoreless streak. However, Holmes witnessed a steep decline as he blew 9 off the 33 save opportunities. While his ERA is still 2.70, the pitcher’s lack of ability to induce swings and misses is his biggest drawback. With a 24.5 percent strikeout rate from Holmes, the Yanks had to trade for Mark Leiter Jr at the deadline to bolster the bullpen depth. Hence, while Clay Holmes might survive the season, he won’t necessarily return back to the Yankee roster in 2025. Juan Soto is expected to eat up most part of the free agency payroll, leaving minimal to no space for any more significant signings. But if somehow Soto falls off the Yanks’ reach, Holmes will be a no-brainer extension prospect.
Juan Soto Eyes Long-Term Stability Ahead Of Career-Defining Free Agency
Meanwhile, Juan Soto opened up on his free agency plans at the 2024 season All-Star game. Soto refused to commit to his present organization the New York Yankees. But did reveal that long-term stability will be a key factor. Having being forced to switch two teams in past three years, Soto wants to wear one uniform for a long time now.
Having said that, Juan Soto refused to share more details as he believes contract negotiations are not his job. His agent, Scott Boras, will handle those responsibilities on his behalf. All he needs to do is play well and guide the New York Yankees to the postseason to eventually level up his market value significantly by the end of the year.
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