Juan Soto has established himself as a generational talent over the years and now is a free agent for the first time at the age of 26.
The superstar outfielder is expected to receive one of the largest contracts in MLB history this offseason, with the total value potentially exceeding $600 million.
Soto has reportedly drawn interest from several big-market teams, including the incumbent New York Yankees, New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers, among others.
The Dodgers are always opportunistic when players of Soto’s caliber become available, but they won’t go out of their way to sign him, via ESPN’s Jeff Passan:
Other teams have shown interest but could be priced out. The Los Angeles Dodgers won’t chase after Soto — Shohei Ohtani’s presence at designated hitter would leave them with limited options should Soto’s defensive range force a move — but would gladly consider him in the unlikely event his market softens.
The Dodgers don’t necessarily have a glaring need for Soto, but the thought of him teaming up with the likes of Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman is extremely appealing.
Although, the Dodgers’ outlook in the outfield is certainly lacking at present time with Teoscar Hernández a free agent as well.
Meanwhile, the team certainly has the financial might to sign Soto — especially with Ohtani’s uniquely structured contract giving them the flexibility to do so — but other factors must be considered as well.
There is a belief that Soto prefers to stay on the East Coast, which could give teams like the Yankees and Mets an advantage to sign him.
The Dodgers may also be more inclined to re-sign Hernández, who enjoyed a productive 2024 season with the team and has expressed a desire to return.
Juan Soto’s free agency will be ‘very thorough process’
Soto’s agent, Scott Boras, recently hinted that the four-time All-Star will take all time he needs before making a decision in free agency.
As such, it’s conceivable that Soto may wait to sign with a team until the annual MLB Winter Meetings, which will take place from Dec. 8-12 in Dallas, Texas.
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