MLB insider Jon Heyman has weighed in on Juan Soto impending free agency, suggesting the star outfielder will likely prioritize financial security over sentiment, unlike rare exceptions such as Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani. The 2025 off-season is expected to bring a lot of twists.
That being said, in the high-stakes world of Major League Baseball, free agency is often where star players secure monumental deals that set the tone for their careers. While some players prioritize legacy or loyalty, others seize the opportunity to maximize their earnings. But whether Juan Soto will choose money over legacy is a question left unanswered.
Is Juan Soto Different Than Aaron Judge, Shohei Ohtani?
Jon Heyman highlighted the uniqueness of Shohei Ohtani and Aaron Judge in the context of free agency, calling them anomalies in an environment where most players pursue the best financial offers. Speaking about their decisions, Heyman said, “I think we just went through two unusual situations where we had all-time great players, really, with Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani, who were not about the money.” Notably, Judge chose to stay with the New York Yankees in 2022 despite receiving competitive offers from other teams. His decision was rooted in a deep connection to the franchise and a desire to leave an enduring legacy in the Bronx. Similarly, Ohtani prioritized fit and personal preferences over the highest bid during his historic free-agency journey in 2023.
However, unlike Judge and Ohtani, Heyman believes Juan Soto will follow the more traditional route of seeking the most lucrative contract available. He emphasized that most players view free agency as the culmination of years of effort and sacrifice, a time to secure their financial future. “Most of these guys take the best deal, and there is nothing wrong with that. I think Ohtani and Judge were the exceptions,” Heyman said. Soto, one of the most electrifying hitters in baseball, is expected to command an astronomical contract this offseason. The Yankees, long rumored to be interested in the superstar, are reportedly in the running, but Heyman is skeptical that they will be able to match the highest offer if the gap becomes significant. “I think Soto will likely take the best deal. Certainly, if it’s a $5 million or $10 million difference, maybe not. But I don’t think he leaves $50 million on the table,” Heyman remarked.
Yankees Up Their Game In Soto’s Pursuit
The New York Yankees have reportedly escalated their efforts to re-sign superstar outfielder Juan Soto, upgrading their initial offer in what has become a fiercely contested free-agency sweepstakes. According to sources, the Yanks are determined to retain Soto.
But they face stiff competition from at least four other big-market franchises, including the Mets, Dodgers, Red Sox, and Blue Jays. Teams are expected to exceed $600 million to secure the services of the star outfielder, who is seeking a long-term contract that could set a new MLB record.
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