As the offseason approaches, the Philadelphia Phillies are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting and important winter. After finally breaking the Atlanta Braves’ decade-long hold on the NL East, the Phillies found themselves eliminated in the NLDS, leaving them eager to make some roster improvements to contend again in 2024. One name that’s been circulating in the rumor mill is none other than Juan Soto, but how realistic are those rumors?
According to Phillies insider Todd Zolecki, the speculation linking the Phillies to the San Diego Padres star outfielder is unlikely to materialize. Despite Soto being one of the top free agents on the market this offseason, Zolecki downplayed the chances of Soto landing in Philadelphia. In response to fan questions, Zolecki noted, “The club will be linked to free agent Juan Soto until he signs a deal, but it is unlikely they will sign him.”
With Soto expected to command a hefty contract, big-market teams like the New York Yankees and New York Mets are considered frontrunners for his signature. Phillies General Manager Dave Dombrowski has also suggested that Philadelphia is not in the market for another expensive superstar. “I don’t think we need to have more star players. We have as many stars as about anybody in baseball,” Dombrowski said recently. “Sometimes, it’s not only the star players; it’s also sometimes the supporting cast.”
While fans may dream of Soto joining a roster already packed with stars like Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Kyle Schwarber, the Phillies are expected to focus on re-signing key players and bolstering their bullpen rather than pursuing another big-name signing. Philadelphia’s payroll is already among the highest in the league, and they are looking to add depth rather than splurging on another marquee player.
As the Juan Soto-to-Philly rumors heat up this winter, it’s wise not to get too caught up in the speculation. It seems the Phillies have other priorities and are unlikely to make a blockbuster move for Soto.
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