The top name on the free agent market is Juan Soto, who is likely to sign a new contract that will be worth at least $500 million. For many reasons, the 26-year-old is one of the best players in Major League Baseball, already having accomplished a great deal in his career.
The New York Yankees are hopeful to retain Soto, but face competition from the likes of the Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, Los Angeles Dodgers and New York Mets.
There have been varying reports of Soto’s perceived preferences, with one suggestion being he wants to remain on the East Coast.
But according to Jim Bowden of The Athletic, Soto will prioritize signing the most lucrative contract:
While some have suggested Soto prefers to play on the East Coast, during free agency he’s indicated he’s open to the West Coast. Several in the industry familiar with Soto and his camp believe he will take the biggest offer, with the most money and years trumping geography.
In his one season with the Yankees in 2024, Soto hit .288/.419/.569 with 31 doubles, four triples and a career-high 41 home runs.
Soto finished in third place for the 2024 American League MVP Award after his first season with the New York Yankees. It represented Soto’s third time finishing within the top five of MVP voting.
In seven seasons thus far, Soto has five Silver Slugger Awards, one batting title and four All-Star Game selections.
New York Mets favorites for Juan Soto?
Because Soto and his camp are likely to chase the largest contract, locale details shouldn’t be too much of a factor. That being said, the Mets owner Steve Cohen is said to be in the mindset to outspend any team in the running.
The Dodgers still stand on the outside of the overall number of interested parties because they’re likely to offer Soto a shorter term, high-value deal.
Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, began meeting with teams in Southern California last week, with the Dodgers among those to have received an opportunity.
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