Juan Soto, MLB’s most sought-after free agent this offseason, is on the radar of multiple powerhouse teams, with his next contract potentially surpassing $600 million. While the New York Yankees and Mets have often been seen as frontrunners, the Philadelphia Phillies are making a compelling case to land the 26-year-old star.
The Phillies entered the 2024 season with high championship hopes, finishing with a 95-67 record and clinching the NL East title for the first time since 2011. However, their postseason ended in disappointment after being eliminated by the Mets in the NLDS. Now, with president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski preparing for 2025, the Phillies are aggressively exploring options to boost their roster. Team chairman John Middleton is fully backing Dombrowski’s efforts, signaling a willingness to raise payroll significantly.
“Given where we are in contract cycles and with minor league talent coming up, I expect payroll to be higher rather than lower,” Middleton told The Philadelphia Inquirer. “I’d be stunned if it’s the same, and I don’t see it being lower.” This strong commitment positions Philadelphia as a viable contender in the Soto sweepstakes.
The Phillies have three factors working in their favor as they pursue Soto. First, according to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the East Coast location gives the Phillies an edge, as Soto reportedly prefers staying on the East Coast, which could put West Coast clubs like the Dodgers at a disadvantage. Second, Soto has existing ties to several Phillies stars. Former Nationals teammates Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Kyle Schwarber, along with hitting coach Kevin Long, could help sway Soto toward Philadelphia.
Finally, Soto’s competitive spirit aligns with the Phillies’ ambitions. “Juan loves winning,” said Soto’s agent Scott Boras at the GM meetings, via the New York Daily News, adding that Soto wants ownership committed to maintaining a championship-caliber roster. Philadelphia’s postseason streak since 2022 and Middleton’s vocal desire to bring another World Series to the city may be exactly the assurances Soto is seeking.
Though Philadelphia is not yet considered Soto’s top destination, Dombrowski and the Phillies intend to present an enticing offer that could see Soto calling Citizens Bank Park home for years to come.
Leave a Reply