As the New York Yankees dive into their offseason negotiations, securing the future of Juan Soto has become a top priority. With Soto now a free agent, his incredible 2024 season has sparked immense interest from other clubs, including the rival New York Mets.
In 2024, Juan Soto reinforced his reputation as one of the league’s top hitters, propelling the Yankees with both his power and precision at the plate. His impressive numbers and consistent performance make him one of the most coveted players in baseball. However, one Yankee, in particular, is vocal about how vital Soto is to the team.
Luke Weaver Recalls Special Bond With Juan Soto
Speaking on “The Show” with Jon Heyman and Joel Sherman, Luke Weaver described Juan Soto as a “humble superstar,” a teammate whose talent and humility made a profound impact on the clubhouse. Weaver shared an anecdote about how Soto, despite being a younger player, referred to him as a “unicorn” for his versatile role on the team, a compliment Weaver holds in high regard. For Weaver, Soto’s recognition of his efforts demonstrated the outfielder’s respect and leadership, qualities he values greatly. Weaver’s advocacy underscores just how much Soto’s presence means to the Yankees. As the team’s closer, Weaver also experienced a career year, finishing with a 2.89 ERA over 84 innings, striking out 103 batters with a WHIP of 0.929.
He became an invaluable asset, especially in the postseason, where he recorded four saves across 15 innings, cementing his role as the team’s best late-inning option. For Luke Weaver, Juan Soto is equally irreplaceable and worth “an infinity amount,” as he passionately stated. Meanwhile, the New York Yankees’ decision to extend Weaver’s contract was straightforward, thanks to his contributions and chemistry with teammates like Soto. However, negotiations with Soto present a much larger financial commitment, with the Mets and other high-budget teams ready to drive up the bidding. The Yanks, therefore, face a dilemma: can they keep Soto while maintaining flexibility under the luxury tax threshold? Boasting a roster that includes stars like Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole, the Yankees know retaining Soto could make them formidable for years to come. And Luke Weaver’s comments highlight the intangible qualities Soto brings beyond his stats.
Dodgers Nearly Ruled Out In Soto’s Sweepstakes
The Los Angeles Dodgers are reportedly considering the possibility of acquiring Juan Soto, though they view the move as unlikely due to existing financial and roster constraints. Fresh off their World Series victory over Soto’s Yankees, the Dodgers have a high-powered roster with established stars, including Shohei Ohtani, whose massive $700 million deal complicates any potential pursuit of Soto.
The Dodgers’ general manager, Brandon Gomes, has hinted at a plan to shift Mookie Betts back to the infield in 2025, which could open a spot in the outfield. However, adding Soto to the mix comes with logistical and financial hurdles. Ohtani, who will likely secure his third MVP title after a record-setting season, has secured the Dodgers’ DH spot for years to come, creating potential overlap with Soto.
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