With MLB free agency underway, all eyes are on Juan Soto and what his next move will be after an MVP-caliber 2024 season.
The generational 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 the incumbent New York Yankees, New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers, among other teams, but his preference may be to stay on the East Coast.
Soto’s agent, Scott Boras, hinted that the four-time All-Star will take all time he needs before making a decision, via ESPN’s Jesse Rogers:
Speaking at the general manager’s meetings Wednesday, Boras indicated that Soto desires a “thorough” vetting before making a decision.
“Due to the volume of interest and Juan’s desire to hear [from teams], I can’t put a timeframe on it, but it’s going to be a very thorough process for him,” Boras said. “He wants to meet people personally. He wants to talk with them. He wants to hear from them.”
Boras added that Soto’s top priority is signing with a team that will contend for a World Series every season:
“He wants ownership that’s going to support that they are going win annually,” Boras said. “Owners want to meet with Juan and sit down and talk with him about what they’re going to provide for their franchise short term and long term.”
As of this point in free agency, the Yankees and Mets are widely considered the co-favorites to sign Soto due to his familiarity with New York and their ability to meet his asking price.
However, the Dodgers would be a good fit as well if Soto is willing to play on the West Coast. The team has won two World Series this decade and made the postseason in every year since 2013.
The Dodgers’ interest in Soto is also worth noting as he previously expressed a desire to team up with Shohei Ohtani.
Will Dodgers pursue Juan Soto?
While the Dodgers don’t necessarily have a need for Soto, they will be opportunistic when players of his caliber become available.
If Soto signs elsewhere, the Dodgers could make more of an effort to re-sign Teoscar Hernández and potentially look to add a shortstop like Willy Adames.
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