New York Yankees fans may have reason to worry about Juan Soto’s future in the Bronx, as speculation about his free agency heats up ahead of the offseason. While Soto remains focused on the Yankees’ postseason hopes, rumors are swirling about a massive offer from the Toronto Blue Jays that could push him away from New York.
After the Yankees secured a Game 3 win against the Kansas City Royals, *NJ Advance Media* asked Soto about reports that the Blue Jays are preparing an ‘astronomical’ contract offer for the star outfielder. Soto, however, brushed off the speculation, emphasizing his commitment to the Yankees for the time being.
“I don’t know anything about that,” Soto told *NJ Advance Media*. “They can’t talk to me now. Let’s see what happens in the offseason.”
Soto’s response is understandable. With the Yankees fighting for their first World Series appearance since 2009, Soto is staying focused on the present. But as the offseason approaches, the question of how much Soto could command in free agency becomes more intriguing.
How much could Juan Soto earn as a free agent? Although Soto isn’t dwelling on it yet, it’s hard not to speculate on the size of his next contract. The better he plays, the bigger the payday.
**Yankees Face Bidding War to Keep Soto in New York**
The New York Yankees are expected to face stiff competition in their efforts to retain Soto this offseason. The New York Mets and Toronto Blue Jays are both rumored to be preparing to enter negotiations, and both teams have the financial muscle to make an offer that could break MLB records.
Though Soto doesn’t pitch, he’s still seen as a candidate to out-earn Shohei Ohtani’s recent 10-year, $700-million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. According to Tim Britton of *The Athletic*, Soto’s next deal could reach 14 years and $560 million. By comparison, Yankees teammate Aaron Judge signed a nine-year, $360-million contract, while Mike Trout’s 2019 deal with the Angels was worth 12 years and just under $430 million.
If the Mets don’t re-sign slugger Pete Alonso, they could pursue Soto as a high-profile replacement. Even if they retain Alonso, adding Soto would give the Mets a chance to one-up their crosstown rivals.
Meanwhile, the Blue Jays are reportedly prepared to offer as much as $600 million to lure Soto north of the border. This would make Toronto a serious contender in what’s shaping up to be a fierce bidding war.
Whoever lands Soto will need to open the checkbook in a big way. The Yankees will do everything they can to keep him alongside Judge, while the Mets and Blue Jays are eager to strip the Yankees of one of their top players. The battle for Soto’s services could be one of the most exciting storylines of the upcoming offseason.
For now, we’ll have to wait until the conclusion of the ALCS to see where Juan Soto’s future lies.
Leave a Reply