Critical Juan Soto chase forces Yankees coach to put off holiday plans

Follow Us

The Yankees’ offseason strategy is laser-focused on retaining Juan Soto, with the outcome of their winter plans hinging on the superstar’s free agency decision. This organizational priority is evident across all levels of the franchise.

Bench coach Brad Ausmus underscored Juan Soto’s importance during a recent interview on MLB Network Radio, revealing how the uncertainty surrounding the outfielder has far-reaching implications. Ausmus admitted he’s even delaying personal vacation plans until Juan Soto’s future is determined, a sign of how central the 26-year-old’s decision is to the team’s broader offseason approach.

“Based on what happens with Soto, then we’ll decide what’s second,” he told. “I’m not even planning vacation until I found out if we get Soto or not.”

Juan Soto first joined the Yankees via trade during his final arbitration year, in which he earned $31 million. Now a four-time All-Star entering free agency, he is expected to command a record-breaking contract, likely surpassing $500 million over multiple years, according to market projections.

If Juan Soto chooses not to re-sign with the Yankees, several major-market teams are poised to pursue him. The New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Dodgers have all been linked to the elite slugger, making his decision a pivotal moment in this offseason’s landscape.

Ausmus in awe of Juan Soto’s Potential

Juan Soto’s first season in pinstripes was nothing short of spectacular, with the 26-year-old delivering 41 home runs, a league-best 128 runs scored, and a .989 OPS that underscored his elite status. 

Yankees bench coach Brad Ausmus highlighted Juan Soto’s broader impact, emphasizing the dangerous offensive synergy created alongside Aaron Judge. Ausmus explained that their combination of power and on-base ability consistently put opposing pitchers on edge, creating ripple effects throughout the lineup. When paired with Giancarlo Stanton’s knack for turning doubles into home runs, the Yankees’ offense became one of the most formidable in the league.

“When you go through Soto and Judge, you’re making any pitcher sweat because not only can they drive themselves in, but they can also just get on base and now if they’re on base, anyone behind them with the next three batters, if they do anything, you’re looking at run-scoring chances,” the coach said. “And when [Giancarlo Stanton] is swinging the bat well and he’s putting the barrel on the ball, it’s not just going into the gap, it’s going over the wall. So I think what makes Soto and Judge so great — it’s not just the ability to hit the ball, but the ability to get on base when they don’t hit the ball.”

Juan Soto’s importance was especially evident during the 2024 postseason, where he stepped up as Judge struggled at the plate. His standout performance in the American League Championship Series included a .368 batting average and three home runs in five games. While Stanton’s incredible offensive outburst ultimately earned him series MVP honors, Juan Soto’s contributions were pivotal to the Yankees’ run.

The outfielder’s regular-season dominance and postseason reliability have solidified his place as an indispensable part of the Yankees’ success. It’s no surprise the team has made his retention the centerpiece of their offseason plans.

Early Juan Soto decision likely as mystery team joins race

Juan Soto’s free agency decision is expected to arrive before the Winter Meetings kick off on Dec. 9 in Dallas, with industry insiders predicting a resolution by the event’s conclusion on Dec. 12. However, no announcement is anticipated before Thanksgiving.

According to sources, Juan Soto and agent Scott Boras have already met with several teams, including the Blue Jays, Red Sox, and Mets. On Monday, the slugger reportedly met with Yankees representatives near Boras’ Newport Beach offices. The Dodgers are expected to follow with a meeting early this week, possibly on Tuesday.

A National League executive believes that while Boras is known for prolonged negotiations, elite talents like Soto often secure deals more swiftly. The executive pointed to Boras’ similar handling of marquee free agents in 2019, such as Gerrit Cole, Stephen Strasburg, and Anthony Rendon, who collectively signed $814 million worth of contracts during the Winter Meetings.

These meetings have drawn top decision-makers from each organization. Sean McAdam of MassLive reported that during his discussions with the Red Sox, Juan Soto posed detailed questions about the team’s commitment to winning, facilities, and player evaluation processes. The inquiries underscore Juan Soto’s comprehensive approach as he weighs the significant career implications of a long-term deal.

An American League executive highlighted that while Juan Soto is assured of a lucrative contract, championship potential could play a pivotal role in his decision. Even with opt-out clauses likely built into any deal, the long-term impact of his choice remains substantial.

The caliber of organizational representation at the meetings reflects the seriousness of Juan Soto’s free agency. The Mets’ delegation included owner Steve Cohen, president of baseball operations David Stearns, and manager Carlos Mendoza. The Red Sox were represented by chairman Tom Werner, president Sam Kennedy, chief baseball officer Craig Breslow, and manager Alex Cora, signaling the high stakes involved in landing one of baseball’s brightest stars.

While the exact makeup of the Blue Jays’ delegation remains unclear, their meeting with Juan Soto likely followed the blueprint used in last year’s Shohei Ohtani talks. That group featured chairman Edward Rogers, president Mark Shapiro, general manager Ross Atkins, and manager John Schneider.

The Yankees’ contingent reportedly included owner Hal Steinbrenner, general manager Brian Cashman, and manager Aaron Boone. Their pitch may have benefited from Juan Soto’s familiarity with the organization following his standout season in the Bronx.

Adding intrigue to the recruitment process, sources indicate that at least one unnamed team has entered the mix, with rumors of potential meetings involving the Giants, Phillies, and Rays. However, Tampa Bay’s bid seems unlikely to gain traction after Hurricane Milton damaged Tropicana Field, forcing the team to relocate to Steinbrenner Field for the 2025 season.

Market projections for Juan Soto’s contract suggest it could exceed $500 million, with some estimates reaching $600 million or more, depending on the deal’s length. Industry speculation identifies the Yankees and Mets as frontrunners, citing his positive experience in New York last season as a key factor.

Both New York teams are positioned to offer financial flexibility. The Yankees are set to shed approximately $80 million in payroll, including Soto’s $31 million arbitration salary from 2024. The Mets, meanwhile, will have over $180 million in relief from outgoing obligations, such as the contracts of Justin Verlander and Max Scherzer.

An American League executive framed the competition as a two-horse race between the Yankees and Mets, given Juan Soto’s established comfort level with the Bronx Bombers and Mets owner Steve Cohen’s willingness to outspend competitors. The executive expressed skepticism about other clubs mounting serious challenges to the New York powerhouses.

What do you think? Leave your comment below.

Follow Us