The New York Yankees and the New York Mets may find themselves aligned in the hunt for free-agent star Juan Soto, as both clubs stand to gain from a reduced field of competitors. While financial terms will ultimately dictate the outcome, recent shifts in the market may alter the competitive landscape.
According to The Athletic, the San Francisco Giants are shifting their financial strategy to a more conservative approach, removing them as serious contenders for Soto. The Giants, who last made the playoffs in 2021, were considered a potential landing spot for Soto due to his potent offense. However, under the guidance of former star Buster Posey, the Giants are tightening their budget. Industry insiders project their spending power this season to be limited to about $30-40 million beyond current commitments, down from last year’s $206 million payroll.
Given Soto’s expected price tag—estimated at around $600 million over 14 years—the Giants are unlikely to pursue him without major roster changes. Additionally, Soto’s agent, Scott Boras, has reportedly ruled out deferred payments, making the Giants’ chances of landing him slim.
Meanwhile, the Mets are moving assertively, having freed up $90 million in salary space. Sources say team owner Steve Cohen is set to meet with Soto and Boras in California next week. Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman has also signaled the team’s interest in Soto, reaffirming their commitment during recent league meetings and the Yankees owner is going to meet Soto soon.
Soto’s impressive 2024 season has heightened his appeal, as he set career highs with 41 home runs, complemented by a .288 batting average, .419 on-base percentage, .569 slugging percentage, and 109 RBIs. This strong performance only increases his value as both New York teams position themselves to make a serious bid.
No Soto priority for Mets, says Ex-GM
The New York Mets are signaling a focused offseason strategy, with President of Baseball Operations David Stearns outlining an assertive approach to building the roster. Yet, sources indicate that the team’s priorities may differ from popular expectations.
Former MLB general manager Jim Bowden, speaking on MLB Network Radio, shared insights into the Mets’ game plan. According to Bowden, contrary to widespread speculation, the Mets’ top objectives are neither acquiring Juan Soto nor extending Pete Alonso. Instead, Stearns’ main focus appears to be securing ace pitcher Corbin Burnes, while also improving defense at third base—potentially moving Mark Vientos to first base to optimize fielding.
Bowden described a clear order of priorities for the Mets, with strengthening the rotation, and specifically targeting Burnes, as the primary goal. Soto remains an interest, though behind the rotation upgrade and defensive reinforcement at third. To enhance infield stability, the Mets are considering options such as Willy Adames or Alex Bregman.
Several factors favor the Mets’ ability to execute this plan: team owner Steve Cohen’s financial backing, around $90 million in salary relief, and strong momentum from their 2024 National League Championship Series appearance. With this flexibility, the team sits approximately $70 million below the luxury tax threshold, providing room for multiple big moves.
Discussions about Soto’s standing in the Mets’ offseason plan remain ongoing, but concrete action is in the works. Reports suggest Cohen has scheduled a meeting with Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, in California next week. Interest in the 26-year-old outfielder is high following his impressive 2024 season with the Yankees, where he delivered 41 home runs, 109 RBIs, and a .288/.419/.569 slash line.
Supported by Cohen’s significant investment in Stearns, the Mets’ front office is poised to pursue multiple high-profile targets, with Stearns expected to have the autonomy needed to shape the team’s future.
Despite Pete Alonso’s impressive tally of 226 home runs since his MLB debut in 2019—second-highest in the league—there are signals the Mets may be cautious about committing to his market value, especially as his power output has shown signs of decline at age 30.
Historically, David Stearns has taken a conservative approach to long-term pitcher contracts, never extending beyond two-year deals during his tenure with the Brewers and early days with the Mets. However, with three pitchers headed to free agency, Stearns may break tradition in pursuit of an ace. Corbin Burnes, projected by ESPN’s Kiley McDaniel to command a seven-year, $225 million contract, is a primary target. Burnes, with a 3.19 career ERA and Cy Young award, could fit perfectly in New York’s rotation, especially given Stearns’ familiarity with him from Milwaukee.
Reports indicate that former Brewers shortstop Willy Adames has shown openness to moving to third base, a possible fit for the Mets’ defensive needs. Both Adames and Astros’ Alex Bregman posted 118 OPS+ last season, bringing solid offense and defensive versatility to the infield.
If the Mets pursue all three targets—Soto, Burnes, and either Adames or Bregman—the team faces a potential long-term investment exceeding $100 million annually for up to a decade. This approach could test owner Steve Cohen’s willingness to exceed luxury tax thresholds and endure additional financial penalties. It may also appear at odds with Stearns’ philosophy of sustainable growth through player development.
Stearns is likely to take a balanced, deliberate approach to the offseason rather than opting for quick, high-stakes signings. This may allow the Yankees to outmatch the Mets for Soto.
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Some of the players should be on the plane and contribute with their salaries