The Los Angeles Dodgers, known for their aggressive pursuit of top talent, may set their sights on New York Yankees outfielder Juan Soto in the upcoming MLB off-season, barring an extension for their current outfielder Teoscar Hernández.
Juan Soto, the 25-year-old four-time All-Star, is set to hit the free agent market after the 2024 season. Despite expectations that the Yankees might re-sign him, recent insights suggest the door remains open for other teams to make a play. The Dodgers, with their financial muscle and history of landing high-profile free agents, could be prime contenders for Soto’s services.
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Scott Boras
Soto’s agent, Scott Boras, is known for taking his star clients to free agency to maximize their value. This makes it unlikely that Soto will sign an extension with the Yankees before hitting the open market. This strategy aligns well with the Dodgers’ approach, as they’ve shown a willingness to offer lucrative contracts to secure top talent.
Additionally, the Yankees have hit a rough patch recently, losing 20 of their last 30 games. Despite their strong start, they are now 1.5 games behind the Baltimore Orioles in the American League East, with their odds to win the World Series and American League Championship sliding.
Soto has said that being in the race yearly will factor in his free agency decision. This downturn has raised questions about the team’s ability to retain players like Soto, especially with several impending free agents on their roster.
Teoscar Hernández
However, the Dodgers’ interest in Soto may hinge on their plans for Teoscar Hernández. If the Dodgers choose to extend Hernández, who they signed to a one-year deal in the off-season, it could potentially reduce their need for another outfielder of Soto’s caliber. Coming off his Home Run Derby win, Hernández’s performance during the 2024 season will likely play a crucial role in the Dodgers’ decision-making process, and thus far, he’s been stellar.
Big Dollar Commitments
Despite committing over $1 billion in contracts last off-season, including the record-breaking $700 million deal for Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers have consistently shown they’re not afraid to spend on elite talent, making them perennial championship favorites at Las Vegas sportsbooks and offshore casinos.
One American League executive noted, “There are teams out there that can win and have the financial means. The Dodgers are among them.”
Soto’s impressive career trajectory and current performance make him an attractive target for any team. With a .316/.415/.551 slash line, 11 home runs, and 37 RBIs in the current season, Soto continues to show his value as one of baseball’s premier hitters. His ability to lead the league in walks and his second-place finish in MVP voting in 2021 further underscore his impact on the field.
While the Dodgers’ recent spending spree might make another $500 million commitment seem unlikely, the team’s financial flexibility and commitment to fielding a competitive roster keep them in the conversation for Soto’s services. As one of the few teams capable of meeting Soto’s expected price tag, the Dodgers remain a potential landing spot until they officially withdraw from the race.
The Dodgers’ pursuit of Soto would shake up the MLB landscape, potentially creating one of the most formidable lineups in recent memory. However, the team’s decision will likely depend on various factors, including their evaluation of Hernández, their long-term financial strategy, and their assessment of Soto’s fit within their roster and organizational philosophy.
As the 2024 season progresses, all eyes will be on the Dodgers’ moves and Soto’s performance, setting the stage for another headline-grabbing off-season in Los Angeles.
