The New York Mets have emerged as one of the top contenders to land superstar outfielder Juan Soto in free agency, and owner Steve Cohen is fueling the speculation. Speaking to reporters on Monday, Cohen delivered a cryptic yet telling remark about the Mets’ chances of signing the coveted slugger.
“We’re gonna find out. It’s either yes or no,” Cohen said of their pursuit. “There’s no in-between, and time will tell.”
While offering no concrete updates, Cohen’s statement reinforced the team’s focus on Soto, just days after former MLB GM Jim Bowden named the Mets as favorites in the sweepstakes.
“If Cohen wants him, he will make the highest bid,” Bowden said. “And if he does that and no other team matches it, I think he’s getting his man.”
Cohen’s willingness to outbid rivals is well-documented, and his words suggest he has a specific figure in mind. Experts predict Soto’s contract could range from $500 million to upwards of $700 million, with Cohen likely to push the upper limits if necessary.
Four Teams in Serious Contention for Soto
According to USA Today’s Bob Nightengale, the competition for Soto comes down to four teams: the Mets, Yankees, Toronto Blue Jays, and Boston Red Sox.
The Yankees hold the advantage of familiarity, as Soto spent 2024 in pinstripes and helped guide the team to a World Series berth. Meanwhile, the Blue Jays would need to “dramatically outbid” the Mets to stay competitive, Nightengale noted, though Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic warns Soto may view Toronto as a risky option given the looming free agencies of Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette.
Boston, meanwhile, made an impression during a recent meeting with Soto, emphasizing their commitment to winning and providing elite facilities. However, no financial figures were reportedly discussed.
Mets Lead the Charge
Cohen’s comments have only heightened expectations that the Mets will make an aggressive push for Soto. His deep pockets and determination to build a championship team put New York in a prime position to win the bidding war.
As the offseason unfolds, the baseball world waits to see whether Cohen’s bold ambitions can bring Soto to Queens—and what historic price tag it might take.
Leave a Reply