The New York Yankees took a strategic gamble this offseason, trading away promising young talent to bring in Juan Soto, hoping to secure a long-term deal with him before he becomes a free agent.
However, with the winter months approaching, recent developments suggest that Soto’s future with the Yankees is uncertain.
Soto, a strong candidate for the AL MVP, has excelled this season, boasting his best batting average since 2021. Positioned in the heart of the Yankees’ lineup, he also has a .430-plus on-base percentage (OBP) and a 1.000 on-base plus slugging (OPS) for the first time since 2020. His impressive statistics include a .303/.431/.571 slash line, 23 home runs, 17 doubles, 4 triples, 66 RBIs, 79 runs scored, 80 walks, and 5 stolen bases in 350 at-bats.
While the Yankees’ front office has publicly expressed its desire for a long-term partnership with Soto, recent reports indicate a lack of progress in contract talks.
According to ESPN’s Buster Olney, there have been no recent discussions between Soto and the Yankees regarding a new deal, and there is currently “no momentum” toward reaching an agreement before Soto hits the free-agent market this winter.
Soto, earning $31 million this season, is set to become a free agent in 2025, posing a significant concern for the Yankees.
Should he enter free agency, teams like the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, or New York Mets could engage in a bidding war for his services, with agent Scott Boras likely ensuring Soto secures a deal with the highest bidder.
The Yankees were aware of the risks when they acquired Soto, understanding that even one season of MVP-caliber performance could be worth the price. However, losing Soto after just one season would be a severe setback for the Yankees’ lineup in the long term.
