The NY Post reports that both New York baseball franchises are intensifying their efforts to sign free-agent outfielder Juan Soto.
Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner plans to meet with Juan Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, approximately a week and a half after Mets owner Steve Cohen’s scheduled meeting. This sets the stage for a high-stakes competition between the two teams.
Yankees and Mets prepare for high-stakes meetings with Juan Soto
According to Mark W. Sanchez and Jon Heyman, Yankees owner is expected to meet with free agent Juan Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, in Southern California. While Mets owner Steve Cohen has already scheduled his visit, industry sources confirm the Yankees have secured their own meeting with Soto shortly after. An exact date hasn’t been set, but the Yankees are assured their turn once the Mets conclude their talks.
“The Yankees owner is expected to fly out for a visit with the superstar free agent and his agent in about a week and a half, industry sources said Friday.”
They noted that, although “Boras has other top free agents on the market who could warrant a chat with Steinbrenner, there is no one available like Soto.”
Juan Soto, who delivered an impressive .989 OPS with 41 home runs over 157 games in the recent season, became a fan favorite during his tenure with the Yankees. His on-field performance and seamless integration into the clubhouse have made retaining him a priority for the Yankees. General Manager Brian Cashman emphasized the team’s readiness to engage in discussions, stating, “Since [Soto] knows us, we are standing ready to meet with him if he feels it necessary to meet with us.”
The Mets, under Cohen’s leadership, are equally determined to enhance their roster. Following a taste of postseason success, they aim to further strengthen their lineup by pursuing top-tier talent like Soto. Cashman acknowledged the Mets’ ambitions, noting, “They want to win… The best way to do that is import quality players to what you already have.”
Juan Soto’s market value and the battle for New York
Juan Soto’s market value is expected to be substantial, potentially approaching the record $700 million contract awarded to Shohei Ohtani last winter. At 26, Soto’s combination of youth and proven performance makes him a highly sought-after asset. While other teams, including the Blue Jays, Dodgers, Giants, Red Sox, and Rays, have expressed interest, the primary competition appears to be between the Yankees and Mets.
The Yankees face additional pressure to secure Juan Soto, having traded significant assets to acquire him ahead of his walk year and not having won a World Series since 2009. Steinbrenner’s forthcoming meeting with Soto and Boras underscores the organization’s commitment to retaining the star outfielder.
As both New York teams prepare for pivotal discussions with Juan Soto, the outcome will significantly impact their respective strategies and aspirations for the upcoming season.
What do you think? Leave your comment below.
Everyone forgets that Hal met with Soto in September. It would not surprise me if when the Yankees would meet with Soto was decided then. Yes, Cohen is meeting him first, but Hal and Soto may very well have set it up that way.