As the MLB offseason heats up, the New York Yankees face one of their most pivotal decisions: whether to re-sign star outfielder Juan Soto. Speaking at the Owners Meetings in New York, team owner Hal Steinbrenner shed light on recent discussions with Soto but stopped short of expressing confidence in bringing the slugger back.
While Soto’s return remains a priority, Steinbrenner revealed the team has not yet decided on its next steps. Whether the New York Yankees will wait for Soto’s decision before pursuing other options is unclear. However, the franchise owner’s tone was timid as he opened up on the recent meeting in California that lasted 2 hours.
Hal Steinbrenner Spills Details On Meeting With Juan Soto
The New York Yankees recently sent a high-level delegation, including General Manager Brian Cashman, Manager Aaron Boone, President Randy Levine, and Special Assistant Omar Minaya, to California for a two-hour meeting with Soto. Describing the meeting as “good” and “honest,” Steinbrenner emphasized the club’s commitment to keeping Soto but admitted uncertainty about the outcome. “No idea. We’ll be in the mix. I’ll leave it at that,” Steinbrenner said when asked if he was confident in re-signing Soto. Steinbrenner acknowledged Soto’s vital contributions during his short tenure in New York. However, despite Soto’s success, his price tag presents a daunting challenge. At just 26 years old, the four-time All-Star is expected to command a record-breaking contract exceeding $500 million.
Soto’s market includes several major competitors, including the New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Dodgers. Mets owner Steve Cohen, known for his aggressive spending, looms as a particular concern for the Yankees. “I could say that about a couple of other owners, too,” Steinbrenner remarked. The Yankees entered this offseason with approximately $80 million in salary relief, including Soto’s $31 million from 2024. However, Steinbrenner cautioned against the sustainability of maintaining a $300-million-plus luxury tax payroll. He reiterated that the Yanks have the resources to sign any player but will adhere to a disciplined financial strategy. “Our fans really enjoyed having him in New York. He’s definitely a significant part of why we got to the World Series,” he added. As the offseason unfolds, the team’s ability to retain Soto or pivot to other targets will define their strategy for 2025 and beyond.
Yankees Wary Of The Mets Threat
The New York Yankees’ pursuit of superstar Juan Soto is heating up, with owner Hal Steinbrenner confirming the team’s active engagement in discussions. However, when asked about his confidence in signing Soto, Steinbrenner remained noncommittal, saying, “No idea. We’ll be in the mix. I’ll leave it at that.”
The Yankees are far from alone in their quest to secure Soto’s services. The Mets, Red Sox, Blue Jays, Dodgers, and Phillies have also expressed interest, with Mets owner Steve Cohen emerging as a formidable contender due to his financial resources. “I could say that about a couple of other owners, too. Of course, it’s a concern,” Steinbrenner said when asked about Cohen’s spending power.
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