Future uncertain: Insiders predict Yankees’ path without Juan Soto if talks falter

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With MLB free agency in full swing, Juan Soto’s future in New York Yankees is one of the league’s most anticipated storylines.

The 25-year-old outfielder tops the market alongside other major names like pitcher Corbin Burnes and Japan’s Roki Sasaki. As teams prepare offers, insiders and former athletes are sharing insights on where Soto might end up — and what it could mean for the Yankees if he doesn’t stay.

Inside the Yankees’ offseason: Where will Juan Soto land?

Former NFL quarterback Norman Julius “Boomer” Esiason made waves with his recent prediction that the Yankees could lose Soto to the Mets. Speaking to Essentially Sports, Esiason said that billionaire Mets owner Steve Cohen, who has ample financial resources, might lure Soto to Queens. He also hinted at a potential counter-move from the Yankees, predicting, “If Juan Soto is in right field for the Mets, Pete Alonso is at first base for the Yankees. I assure you.”

The Mets, known for their deep pockets, could make a lucrative bid for Soto while still pursuing other top talents, like Alonso. According to Danny Abriano of SNY, Alonso could be enticed by a $125 million deal over five years, making him a feasible option for either New York team. For the Yankees, losing Soto could free up funds to target multiple free agents, potentially including Alonso, Alex Bregman, and Anthony Santander. Esiason’s vision for a “power-packed” Yankees lineup would see several home run hitters in the heart of the order, offsetting Soto’s absence.

MLB analyst Harold Reynolds stirred additional speculation by suggesting the Toronto Blue Jays as a realistic destination for Soto. Reynolds noted that Toronto, which pursued Shohei Ohtani last offseason, has shown a willingness to make aggressive offers. His comment raised eyebrows among Yankees insiders, including Yankees Unloaded host Gary Sheffield Jr., who was quick to challenge the idea on social media. “It’s okay to think the Jays have a shot, but to suggest there’s a higher chance than a Yankees return is hilarious,” Sheffield tweeted.

Former Yankees outfielder Cameron Maybin supported Sheffield’s skepticism, adding that if offers were similar, “the Jays would be last on Soto’s list!” Despite this, Toronto remains a dark horse with an aggressive front office that could push to lure Soto away from their AL East rivals.

What lies ahead for the Yankees?

The Yankees’ priority will be to retain Soto, given his 2024 impact on their lineup, where he hit .288 with a .419 on-base percentage, 41 home runs, and 109 RBIs. His impressive season saw him step up as a valuable complement to Aaron Judge, solidifying their offense. However, if Soto does leave, the Yankees will need to quickly pivot, balancing power and defense to stay competitive in the AL East.

For now, Yankees fans await a resolution, hopeful that Soto’s time in pinstripes continues, but realistic about the potential for a reshaped roster. Whether he stays or goes, the Yankees will need to navigate this pivotal offseason carefully to ensure they have the tools to compete in 2025.

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