The New York Yankees are facing stiff competition in their bid to retain superstar outfielder Juan Soto, as reports suggest the New York Mets have extended a groundbreaking offer. According to Dominican MLB insider Mike Rodriguez, the Mets have proposed a staggering 15-year, $730 million deal, marking the highest bid in what has become a historic free-agent sweepstakes.
“According to a very close source, the Mets have offered a deal worth over $730M for the next 15 years to Juan Soto, and so far it is the highest offer from any team right now,” Rodriguez reported on X.
If the report holds true, Soto would break MLB contract records, surpassing the previous high-water mark set by Shohei Ohtani’s $700 million deal with the Dodgers. While many analysts had projected Soto’s deal to fall just short of $700 million, recent reports of offers exceeding that amount appear to validate Rodriguez’s claim.
Soto’s Star Power
At just 26 years old, Soto is the top free agent on the market, coming off a stellar 2024 campaign with the Yankees. He hit .288 with 41 home runs, 109 RBIs, and maintained his reputation as one of baseball’s most disciplined hitters. A four-time All-Star and a 2019 World Series champion with the Washington Nationals, Soto’s resume positions him for one of the richest contracts in sports history.
MLB insider Jon Heyman of The New York Post echoed the sentiment, writing that the “bidding in the Juan Soto Derby is expected to hit baseball’s magic $700 million mark.” The Yankees, Mets, Red Sox, and Blue Jays remain in contention, with all four teams reportedly willing to approach or exceed that figure.
Yankees’ Push to Retain Soto
The Yankees, who acquired Soto last season to strengthen their World Series run, are determined to keep him in pinstripes. Soto’s presence in the lineup provided crucial protection for Aaron Judge and elevated New York’s offensive firepower.
“We certainly have an interest in retaining him and we’ll put our best foot forward,” Yankees GM Brian Cashman said during the GM Meetings. Owner Hal Steinbrenner also emphasized Soto’s importance, saying, “He’s a significant part of why we got to the World Series.”
Mets’ Ambition
For the Mets, signing Soto would represent a monumental shift in the balance of power in the NL East. Their aggressive pursuit, including the unprecedented offer, signals owner Steve Cohen’s commitment to building a championship-caliber team.
With Soto expected to make a decision in the coming days, the baseball world is watching closely. Whether he stays in the Bronx or crosses town to Queens, one thing is certain: Soto’s next contract will redefine the MLB landscape.
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