After an appalling 2023 season, one would expect major scuffles within the New York Yankees’ roster. Though, the team won’t necessarily enter a rebuilding phase since many existing players remain on long-term contracts. Regardless, the concerning gap needs to be filled under any circumstances.
To begin with, the New York Yankees need to find a left fielder who is also possibly a left-handed hitter. One San Diego superstar outfielder fits perfectly into the Bronx Bombers criteria. But it would take a lot of guts from the front office to go all in for a probable trade. However, recent rumors suggest that the Yanks are, in fact, serious about the potential deal. And have initiated the first step.
Yankees Had Preliminary Conversation With Padres With Respect To Juan Soto’s Availability, Claims Source!
Juan Soto, currently with the San Diego Padres, has emerged as one of the brightest young stars in MLB. Known for his exceptional hitting, power, and defensive skills, Soto is considered by many to be a generational talent with the potential to be the face of a franchise. At just 24 years old, he has already earned accolades, including All-Star selections and Silver Slugger Awards. Moreover, with the right time and opportunity, he had the potential to become an MVP someday. But will it be with the New York Yankees? As per Andy Martino of SNY, the Bronx Bombers have reportedly initiated a blockbuster trade deal that could potentially bring Juan Soto, one of the most talented young outfielders in the game, to the Bronx.
The Yankees have had a preliminary conversation with the Padres about Juan Soto, per @martinonyc pic.twitter.com/24Kjtl3Quw
— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) October 25, 2023
Juan Soto, who has one year left on his current contract with the Padres, could be made available at the right price. For the Yankees, the opportunity couldn’t have come at a better time. Since the outfielder is on a one-year deal, the Yanks can get away with a cheaper exchange offer. However, they will still have to part ways with prospects such as Everson Pereira or Austin Wells. But for Soto, anything is justified. On the other hand, as far as the Padres are concerned, their general manager said that while extending Soto would remain the first priority, they are not ruling out the possibility of a trade-out. Suddenly, the Bombers’ far-fetched pursuit of Juan Soto is looking like a real deal.
Anthony Rizzo Could Be Key To Land Juan Soto!
In the wake of recent developments, a rival official suggested the New York Yankees put veteran baseman Anthony Rizzo on the Juan Soto offer to lure the Padres. He feels that since the Padres are not in a rebuilding phase, a veteran could be something that catches their attention.
Anthony Rizzo has one year left on his two-year extension contract he signed earlier this year, with a club option for 2025. His contract also contains a limited no-trade clause. Also, Rizzo has been extremely fond of playing alongside his best bud, Aaron Judge. After all, he returned to the Yankees only after Judge signed an extension deal. Overall, the Yankees need to be extra precautious while putting together a strong offer to lure the Padres.
