Juan Soto, one of the most coveted free agents, began receiving offers from MLB rivals as soon as the New York Yankees lost the 2024 World Series to the LA Dodgers. The 26-year-old generational star registered a career-best season in 2024 and is expected to fetch a league-high record contract.
However, the ultimate fight is expected to close down between big spending teams, including the Yankees, Mets and Dodgers. While Yanks extended a qualifying offer, Soto is more or less certain to decline it. And franchise owner Hal Steinbrenner is well versed with that reality as he plans his next move before Steve Cohen outsmarts him.
Steinbrenner To Meet Juan Soto In California
The pursuit of Juan Soto has turned into a New York showdown, as Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner and Mets owner Steve Cohen each plan to visit the superstar outfielder in Southern California. Both are preparing their pitches to Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, in an attempt to secure the slugger for their lineups in 2025. This rivalry for Soto could come down to these two wealthy New York franchises, although several other teams, such as the Dodgers, Blue Jays, and Red Sox, are also interested in signing the generational talent. Notably, Soto, who made a major impact in his first year with the Yankees, is coming off a stellar season where he posted a .989 OPS with 41 home runs.
He quickly became a fan favorite in the Bronx, both for his performance on the field and his rapport with teammates like Aaron Judge. Hence, recognizing Soto’s potential to elevate their lineup, Steinbrenner is keen to keep him in New York and avoid the risk of him signing with their city rivals. Importantly, Cohen is equally motivated, hoping to bring Soto across town to boost the Mets, who are looking to build on recent successes and further solidify their lineup. Cohen’s deep pockets give the Mets a competitive edge, but the Yankees, led by Steinbrenner and GM Brian Cashman, are reportedly prepared to make a strong case. The Bronx Bombers, who traded Soto before his walk year, are under pressure to justify that investment and end their championship drought. Hence, Steinbrenner’s personal involvement reflects the team’s determination, knowing that losing Soto would be a major blow.
Juan Soto’s Market Value Revealed By Insider
Juan Soto’s stellar postseason has reinforced his position as one of MLB’s most coveted free agents, with recent ALCS heroics setting the stage for a potentially historic contract. With recent reports suggesting that Soto could command up to $600 million, a close second to Shohei Ohtani’s record $700 million deal last year, Soto’s market appeal is undeniable.
As free agents with both proven postseason success and an elite skill set, Juan Soto’s marketability is further enhanced. Meanwhile, Yankees fans hope his postseason contributions are enough to retain him, while other teams may leverage aggressive offers to lure the 26-year-old away. Overall, whether Juan Soto remains in the Bronx or takes his talents elsewhere remains to be seen.
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