As Juan Soto hits free agency, almost every team would love to add him, but only certain teams really have the financial resources necessary to make it happen. The defending champion Dodgers are one of them, but they aren’t even in the top 5 in terms of likely destinations. Here are my top five potential landing spots:
New York Yankees:
Soto’s current team is considered the favorite to retain him, given the Yankees financial resources and the value they place on elite talent. With a recent history of prioritizing stars like Aaron Judge, the Yankees could aggressively work to keep Soto, who’s already comfortable in the New York market. If the Yankees want any chance of going back to the World Series, they will give Soto whatever he asks for. Without him, there is a chance they go from AL Champions in 2024 to missing the playoffs in 2025.
New York Mets:
Across town, the Mets are well-positioned to make a run at Soto. With owner Steve Cohen’s willingness to spend, the Mets are expected to engage in a bidding war with the Yankees. They have payroll flexibility coming up and may view Soto as the key to becoming championship contenders. If the Mets had Soto this past season, it is possible that they could have beaten the Dodgers in the postseason. He could be their missing piece, especially if they also spend money elsewhere on pitching.
San Francisco Giants:
The Giants have shown interest in big-ticket-free agents in recent years and have the payroll space for a massive deal. Adding Soto would give them a marquee player to anchor their lineup, and they have previously pursued other stars, showing they’re not afraid of significant financial commitments. The Giants offense has been pedestrian for years now, and adding Soto would give them their best left-handed bat since Barry Bonds’s days.
Philadelphia Phillies:
Known for making bold moves, the Phillies would likely be interested if Soto is available. Philadelphia has demonstrated a willingness to spend for a competitive roster, and Soto’s left-handed bat would fit well in their lineup and at Citizens Bank Park. Adding Soto to a lineup that already features Kyle Schwarber, Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and other big stars will give the Phillies the best offense in all of MLB.
Toronto Blue Jays:
The Blue Jays, who missed out on Shohei Ohtani, might look to Soto to strengthen their outfield and add to their young core. They have financial flexibility and could make a major move if they believe Soto can elevate their playoff chances. If they do acquire Soto, it would give them one of the best 1-2 punches in the game with him and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. The signing of Soto will also help the Blue Jays when it comes to negotiating a long-term contract with Guerrero Jr.
How Much Will He Sign For?
These teams all have the means and motivation to secure Soto, making his free agency one of the most anticipated in recent history. It is very rare for a player of this caliber to become a free agent at such a young age, which is one of the reasons why Soto is so special. How much will he sign for? 600 million? 700 million? 12 years? 14 years? Only time will tell.