‘Schooled’ Juan Soto ignores Yankees teammates plea to stay
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Follow UsIn the wake of the Yankees’ heart-wrenching World Series loss to the Dodgers, Juan Soto spoke with reporters in the clubhouse. Although he briefly commented on the team’s 7-6 defeat in Game 5, much of the conversation shifted to his upcoming free agency.
With the Yankees’ exclusive five-day window to negotiate in place, industry analysts view the chances of reaching a deal by Monday as slim. During the interview, Soto notably refrained from indicating any preference for staying with the Yankees, adhering to the calculated approach common among Scott Boras clients.
Soto stated that the Yankees would not be granted any advantage in negotiations, emphasizing that all 30 MLB teams would be considered equally. He cited team competitiveness as a key factor in his ultimate decision.
Asked whether the passionate support from Yankees fans could sway him, Soto responded with humor, hinting that such support might influence ownership decisions more than his own. He did, however, acknowledge the fanbase’s steadfast backing over the season while holding to his neutral position.
This led Randy Miller of NJ Advanced Media to say, “Agent Scott Boras has this young man schooled.”
When questioned about the possibility of a contract nearing $600 million, Soto acknowledged the magnitude of the figures being discussed without confirming or denying them.
“I feel like every team has the same opportunities when I’m going to the free agency,’ Soto said. “I don’t want to say anybody has any advantage, because at the end of the day we’re going to look what they have…… We’ve got to sit down and look at it whenever we have a chance with my agent…..That’s a lot of money that people are talking about here.”
His careful answers and strategic approach underscored the methodical nature expected of elite free agents—especially those represented by Boras—as they prepare to test the open market.
Asked if Game 5 marked his final appearance as a Yankee, Soto remained noncommittal. He acknowledged the sting of the loss but expressed pride in the team’s overall accomplishments and playoff run, even though they fell short of their championship aspirations.
Despite questions about whether an offer from the Yankees meeting his financial expectations might sway him, Soto avoided signaling any preference. He emphasized that discussions with his agent would guide his next steps, keeping his options open.
Soto’s persistent neutrality about re-signing with the Yankees, even when prompted with financial hypotheticals, highlights a strategic approach as free agency looms, ensuring that no potential path is discounted.
Soto’s shocker to Yankees
Ahead of his upcoming free agency, Juan Soto spoke with enthusiasm about the process, describing it as a significant milestone that many major league players aim to reach. When asked about potential interest from New York teams, Soto reflected positively on his experience with both the city and the Yankees organization. However, he underscored his intent to fully consider all opportunities before making any decisions.
“It’s going to be exciting,” he explained about his free agency. “It’s going to be a good experience. I think every player in the big leagues wants to experience what it’s going to be in free agency.”
Addressing potential interest from the Mets, Soto reiterated that he would be open to offers from all 30 MLB teams, making it clear that no organization would be excluded from consideration.
“I don’t know the teams that want to come after me, but definitely I’ll be open to every single team,” he told. “I don’t have any door Closed, So I’m going to be available for all 30 teams.”
Soto admitted that leaving a successful team like the Yankees would be difficult. He expressed appreciation for his time with the club, calling it exceptional and noting the unique atmosphere within the team. Yet, he kept his future plans ambiguous, stating that while he would always have positive memories of the Yankees, his decision remained undecided.
“Leaving any place that is a winning team is always hard,” he said. “Definitely this place was really special. It’s been a blast for me. I’ve been really happy. Definitely if I’m here or not. I’d be really happy for the team. The people that I got to know in here, this was a really special group. But at the end of the day, we will see what’s gonna happen.”
Through his remarks, Soto maintained a balance between gratitude for his Yankees tenure and a strategic openness about his options, embodying the poised approach often seen in high-profile free agents as they prepare to enter the market.
When asked about Yankees fans’ love for him, the slugger put the onus on the team ownership to reflect that and discounted any pressure emanating from that on him.
“It probably will impact the decision of the ownership! We’ll see how it goes,” he said. “I’m definitely really excited and really thankful for those fans. They’ve been incredible all year long.”
Discussing his partnership with Aaron Judge, Juan Soto expressed genuine appreciation for their success during the season, emphasizing the lessons learned and the positive influence of their professional relationship. Notably, when mentioning how these lessons would inform his “next step,” Soto avoided implying any commitment to continuing their collaboration.
“I’m really, really happy with what we did as a duo this year, as teammates,” he said about his partnership with Judge. “Just incredible. I really learned a lot of things from him. That was really cool to see. I’m going take that to my next step.”
Reflecting on a season that saw him hit 41 home runs while batting behind Judge, Soto spoke warmly about the emotional impact of his time with the team, framing it as a meaningful chapter now complete. He praised Judge’s contributions to his performance but remained noncommittal about the future.
On whether he would give the Yankees a chance to match other offers, Soto maintained a broad approach, indicating he was open to discussions with the Yankees but emphasized that this openness extended equally to all teams.
“The Yankees, I have open arms to let them come in and talk to me. I don’t have any doors closed. I’m going to keep all my doors open and whoever wants to come in and talks, we’re gonna have a good conversation.”
Commenting on teammates’ reactions to his upcoming free agency, Soto noted that their messages prioritized his personal and family interests over team allegiance. He expressed gratitude for their support while staying neutral on his next move.
“They just wish me the best luck. Make sure I do the best for me and my family. These guys were special. I’m really happy to play with them.”
Soto’s responses were marked by a balance of respect and gratitude for his time with the Yankees, combined with a strategic preservation of flexibility, avoiding any indication of preference or advantage for his current team.
Yankees teammates on ‘Mission Soto’
As Juan Soto prepares for free agency following the Yankees’ season, teammates have expressed strong backing for his potential return to New York.
Captain Aaron Judge spoke highly of Soto’s impact, noting his relentless work ethic and drive to improve, even during standout periods when his batting average topped .320. Judge pointed out Soto’s commitment to extra practice after tough games and conveyed his admiration for any decision Soto and his family might make after thorough reflection. He emphasized the team’s good fortune in having Soto on the roster and expressed hope for continued partnership, praising his remarkable talent.
“I haven’t really thought about it. I’m proud of the year that Juanny had,” the Yankees captain said. “It was fun to come to work with him every single day. Just the work he puts in behind the scenes, even when the guy was hitting .320. I’d see him working late after the games, if he had an 0-fer, he was showing up early doing work. Whatever he decides, whatever him and his family decides, he prays on it, he’s going to make the right decision for him and his family. We were definitely lucky to have him and it would be great to keep playing with him because he’s definitely a special player.”
The uncertainty surrounding Soto’s long-term future with the Yankees was a recurring theme throughout 2024. The club’s approach to his acquisition recognized it could be a one-season move, but with optimism that a positive experience might lead to a more permanent arrangement.
Soto’s fit with the Yankees was seamless, evidenced by his career-best 41 home runs, 109 RBIs, and an impressive .989 OPS. His postseason performance further cemented his value, with a critical three-run homer in Game 5 of the ALCS against the Guardians propelling the team to victory. His playoff contributions, marked by a .327/.469/.633 slash line over three series, showcased his ability to deliver in pivotal moments.
Soto’s standout regular season, clutch postseason efforts, and smooth integration into the team culture have fueled internal support for pursuing an extended contract, even as the Yankees prepare for competition from other suitors.
Juan Soto’s impressive stats have positioned him for a lucrative free agency period. Teammate Giancarlo Stanton, speaking from limited personal experience with free agency, kept his advice simple: he hopes Soto chooses to stay.
After the Yankees’ narrow 7-6 defeat to the Dodgers in Game 5 of the World Series, Soto maintained a neutral stance about his future. He stressed that all 30 MLB teams, including unlikely contenders such as the White Sox, would be considered equally. Soto made it clear that no team held a particular advantage as he approached free agency.
At the heart of the matter is financial power, echoing the familiar sentiment that “cash rules.” Industry experts foresee fierce competition among deep-pocketed owners like Hal Steinbrenner of the Yankees, Steve Cohen of the Mets, and the Dodgers’ ownership group, with projections of contracts reaching historic figures.
Yankees players, including Judge and Stanton, are hopeful Steinbrenner might channel his father’s aggressive approach to high-profile signings. “I’ve never been in (free agency), so just stay with us would be the advice,” Stanton said.
Manager Aaron Boone expressed his wish for Soto to remain with the team while acknowledging the significant opportunities that await the player in free agency. “I hope he’s here forever,” Boone said. “But I also know I’m excited for him and what the next few months are for him.”
The measured responses from team leaders highlight their desire to retain Soto while recognizing the market’s complex dynamics that will shape his decision.
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This is where I really don’t like what Boras teaches his clients. The second their season is over, he has them turn the page and they immediately become ex-teammates of the guys still in the locker room and they talk that way. Chase the money, but can you at least teach them to give it that night? Cole did the same thing with the Astros after the 2019 WS.