As the 2024 MLB season winds down, the New York Yankees are on the verge of clinching the AL East title with just one more win against the Baltimore Orioles. While the team prepares for another postseason run, the future of star outfielder Juan Soto is capturing attention beyond October.
Juan Soto has had an incredible first season in pinstripes, and former Yankees ace CC Sabathia is one of many voices pushing for the Yankees to ensure Soto remains in New York beyond 2024.
Juan Soto’s first season in Pinstripes
Juan Soto has been a game-changer for the Yankees this year, posting some of his best career stats. Heading into the series against Baltimore, he’s recorded his highest batting average since his near-MVP season in 2021 and set career highs with 40 home runs and 124 runs scored, benefitting from Yankee Stadium’s short porch. His slugging percentage of .572 is also among the best of his career. Yankees fans have taken notice, chanting “Re-sign Soto!” from the bleachers as the Bronx faithful push for the outfielder to stay long-term.
While fans are vocal about their desire to see Juan Soto remain in pinstripes, former Yankees star CC Sabathia is also making his opinion known. Speaking at his 4th Annual Charity Golf Tournament, which supports his PitCCh In Foundation, Sabathia said in an interview with Fox Sports:
“I think it’s a must-have on both sides. For him, it makes sense. And for the Yankees, it makes sense. Honestly, we’ll have to wait and see what happens. But I think you just look at the season, it played out perfectly.”
Sabathia, who spent 11 years with the Yankees and played a key role in their 2009 World Series victory, is confident that keeping Soto would be a win for both the player and the organization. With the Yankees entering the postseason and a chance to secure home-field advantage throughout, Sabathia’s words carry weight as he reflects on what the future holds for Soto and the team.
The upcoming free agency battle
As Juan Soto’s contract nears its expiration, his market value is climbing. At just 25 years old, Juan Soto is expected to command a historic contract during free agency, with teams across the league eager to bid for his generational talents. Yankees fans are hoping Soto follows in Aaron Judge’s footsteps, re-signing with the team after testing the free agent market. However, a bidding war is inevitable, with the New York Mets rumored to be among the frontrunners.
As the Yankees aim for their 28th World Series title, Juan Soto’s future remains a central storyline. His stellar performance in his contract year makes him indispensable to the Yankees’ lineup, and as Sabathia noted, retaining him “just makes sense.” The question remains: How much will Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner be willing to spend to keep Soto in the Bronx?
Should Juan Soto help lead the Yankees to a World Series victory, his time in New York could become even more valuable. Yankees fans—and Sabathia—are hopeful that Juan Soto’s career in pinstripes is just beginning.
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