Yankees upbeat on signing Juan Soto after meeting slugger, Boras

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After extensive discussions on Monday, the Yankees’ leadership reportedly emerged optimistic about their chances of securing a long-term deal with outfielder Juan Soto. Sources indicate the meeting, which included Juan Soto and his agent Scott Boras, showcased the slugger’s genuine interest in remaining with the team, though formal contract negotiations have yet to begin.

According to Bob Klapisch of NJ.com Team owner Hal Steinbrenner, president Randy Levine, GM Brian Cashman, manager Aaron Boone, and senior advisor Omar Minaya were among those present, highlighting Juan Soto’s importance to the organization. Conversations reportedly centered on Juan Soto’s experience with the Yankees in 2024, his fit within the roster, and the team’s commitment to sustained competitiveness. Steinbrenner is said to have assured the slugger of efforts to strengthen the roster, though specific targets were not disclosed.

“The Yankees came away from a meeting with Juan Soto on Monday feeling positive about their chances of signing the slugger to a long-term contract, according to an industry source,” Klapisch wrote. “The hours-long face-to-face meeting left owner Hal Steinbrenner and his brain trust “encouraged” by Soto’s desire to remain in pinstripes. Although no offer was made, the club believes the door is open to a second, dollars-driven negotiation with Soto in the coming weeks.”

Juan Soto, in turn, sought guarantees about the team’s dedication to championship contention while offering feedback on areas for improvement. Yankees officials reportedly highlighted his impact on the fanbase, his World Series pedigree, and his partnership with Aaron Judge, emphasizing his integral role in the team’s future.

While financial specifics were not discussed, sources suggest substantive contract talks will begin in the coming weeks. Social media speculation has linked Juan Soto to other suitors, including the Mets, who have reportedly floated a $660 million offer. Despite the competition, Steinbrenner is believed to be prepared to match or exceed rival bids, particularly those from Mets owner Steve Cohen.

Yankees insiders remain confident in their position, underscoring Juan Soto’s strong connection with the team and its fanbase as pivotal factors in their pursuit.

Multiple MLB teams, including the Dodgers, Red Sox, Blue Jays, Mets, and Phillies, are reportedly intensifying their pursuit of Juan Soto, according to industry sources. Scott Boras, the player’s agent, is expected to wrap up preliminary talks with interested parties before Thanksgiving, with a decision anticipated in early December. This timeline aligns with the Winter Meetings in Dallas, offering a prime stage for what could become a record-breaking contract announcement.

The Yankees remain bullish on their chances, with insiders citing Juan Soto’s proven ability to perform under the pressure of the New York market as a key factor. Team officials reportedly view his poise as a stark contrast to previous acquisitions like Joey Gallo, Aaron Hicks, and Josh Donaldson, who struggled under the city’s intense scrutiny.

An unaffiliated MLB executive noted that while some players discover their discomfort with the New York spotlight only after signing, Juan Soto has already demonstrated his ability to excel in the demanding environment. This confidence has bolstered the Yankees’ efforts to secure his long-term commitment.

While the Mets present a similar metropolitan appeal, insiders suggest the Yankees are emphasizing their extensive national following and robust road game support as unique advantages. Hal Steinbrenner is reportedly leveraging these distinctions in ongoing discussions to solidify Juan Soto’s future in the Bronx.

Though Monday’s meeting offered no guarantees, sources close to the negotiations say Yankees leadership remains optimistic about their position, buoyed by Juan Soto’s apparent interest and the team’s strategic pitch.

Most MLB insiders tip Juan Soto staying with the Yankees

An ESPN survey of 18 MLB executives and insiders, released Tuesday, has shed light on the growing anticipation surrounding Juan Soto’s next move. The poll centered on offseason developments, with Soto’s future team and potential contract leading the conversation.

Of those surveyed, 12 predicted that Juan Soto would remain with the Yankees, while four favored a move to the Mets, and two pointed to the Blue Jays as a landing spot. Eleven respondents projected that the slugger’s next contract would surpass $600 million, reflecting the market’s high expectations.

A small-market executive noted the Yankees’ historic commitment to retaining marquee talent, suggesting it would be uncharacteristic for them to let Juan Soto leave. The executive also acknowledged the Dodgers’ rise as a major player in such negotiations, though emphasizing Soto’s current status in pinstripes.

Another insider suggested Yankees general manager Brian Cashman is likely to underscore Juan Soto’s elite offensive contributions in his discussions with team leadership. His 2024 campaign reinforced his superstar status, as he delivered career-best numbers in several categories: 156 hits, 128 runs, 41 home runs, and a 178 OPS+ over 157 games, complemented by a .288/.419/.569 slash line. Many believe such production cements his trajectory as a potential Hall of Famer, with a chance to be enshrined as a Yankee.

Meanwhile, Juan Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, are reportedly meeting with multiple teams, including the Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, and Blue Jays, to explore options. According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the Dodgers held their meeting Tuesday, while The New York Post’s Jon Heyman reports the Phillies are vying to join the mix. These discussions are expected to shape what could become one of the most significant deals in baseball history.

An ESPN report on Juan Soto’s potential free agency followed comments by YES Network broadcaster Michael Kay, who revealed on his radio show Monday that a baseball insider suggested Mets owner Steve Cohen might outbid competitors by as much as $50 million to secure Juan Soto. 

Analysts note Cohen’s aggressive financial strategy aligns with his past moves, including trades involving Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander, where he absorbed substantial salary commitments in exchange for prospects. Heading into the offseason, the Mets have approximately $150 million in payroll commitments—$190 million less than their 2024 total—leaving significant flexibility under the $241 million Competitive Balance Tax threshold for 2025.

Conversely, Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner has acknowledged the difficulty of maintaining a $300 million payroll but has expressed his desire for Juan Soto to remain in pinstripes long-term. Sources suggest Juan Soto’s experience with the Yankees, including his dynamic partnership with likely AL MVP Aaron Judge, strengthened his connection to the team. Together, the pair formed one of baseball’s most potent offensive duos during the 2024 season.

Industry insiders believe the upcoming Winter Meetings, set for Dec. 9-12, could clarify Juan Soto’s decision. Observers say his appreciation for the New York market and its fanbase may heavily influence the outcome as teams vie for the superstar’s signature.

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