The New York Yankees are eyeing Washington Nationals slugger Juan Soto. The two-time All-Star rejected a 15-year, $440million contract offer from the Nationals, and the franchise is looking to trade him. The 23-year-old led his team to a World Series in 2019. He secured the top 10 in the National League MVP voting thrice in a row. Soto is currently hitting .205/.405/.497 with 20 home runs and 43RBI this season. However, the Yankees are not the only ones who want Juan on their roster. Among more than six teams interested in the Washington hitter, the Cardinals are being considered the frontrunners in a potential trade deal for Soto.
As per the New York Post, the Yankees have been in conversations with the Nationals about Soto. But, a decision has not been made, and the potential trade options have not been discussed. The Yankees could succeed in pulling off the trade if they give up their top young prospects in exchange for Juan Soto.
However, several reports have suggested that the bombers are not willing to give up on Anthony Volpe, Oswald Peraza, and Jason Dominguez. However, the Pinstripers might have to make a compromise if they really want the generational talent on their roster. The Yankees are believed to be willing to take on a bid on the Nationals contract if the prospect is right. Thus, the Yankees are still in contentions about acquiring Soto. But it would not be easy with the Cardinals lurking around.
Can The Yankees Get Soto And Beat The Cardinals?
Meanwhile, the St. Louis Cardinals, who have a nag to go after high-profile young talents, are considered to be the frontrunners to land Juan Soto. The Mets and the Yankees are involved, but no news about New York having a real chance has surfaced yet. Several sources believe that the Cardinals have the attention of the Nationals while the Mariners are also considered to be in contention.
The Nationals are believed to be in hunch for 4-5 top young players, prospects combo, and major league players with low service time in exchange for Soto. With the trade deadline approaching soon, on August 2, 2022, the Nats are waiting for a team to meet their price. Moreover, many MLB executives feel the Nationals would wait until winter to trade Soto. Washington would need some time to analyze other teams’ farm systems. They also want to give teams time to trade major-league players and prospects to make way for Juan. Thus, the team in early contention for Juan Soto are the Yankees, Cardinal, Mets, mariners, Dodgers, and padres.