Who are the early favorites to sign Juan Soto in free agency?

As the dust settles on the Yankees' World Series run, Juan Soto stands at the crossroads of his career. The 26-year-old slugger is now one of the hottest free agents on the market, setting off a bidding war that could make history in Major League Baseball. A player of Soto’s caliber - young, left-handed, and consistently powerful at the plate - has nearly every team eyeing him, but a few frontrunners have emerged.

The New York Yankees

New York doesn’t want to lose Soto after a year in which he led the team to its first World Series appearance since 2009. He immediately became a fan favorite with his blend of clutch hitting and big-stage charisma. Pairing Soto with Aaron Judge brought a rare dynamic to the lineup that few other teams could replicate. The Yankees know they have a strong foundation, and with Soto, they see a long-term future that could bring them back to perennial dominance.

Manager Aaron Boone is vocal about wanting Soto to stay. “I hope he’s here forever,” Boone has said, knowing what an asset Soto has been to the team’s clubhouse and offense. Yet the Yankees have an uphill battle. They’ll likely be competing with a handful of teams willing to go even bigger financially. For New York, Soto might be worth breaking the bank, but they’ll need to be aggressive.

The New York Mets

The Mets have emerged as one of the primary challengers in the Soto sweepstakes. Led by deep-pocketed owner Steve Cohen, the Mets are prepared to do what it takes to build a winner in Queens. Soto would bring an immediate, high-profile boost to a team hungry for success after years of trying to shake off inconsistent results. And Cohen has already shown he’s not afraid of big moves or big contracts, going after stars like Francisco Lindor and Max Scherzer in recent years.

It helps that Soto has said he’s open to hearing from every team. He’s clear that he wants to be part of a winning organization, and with Cohen’s determination, the Mets are positioning themselves as just that. If they’re willing to reach the $600-700 million range rumored to be Soto’s price tag, they could very well have the edge.

Los Angeles Dodgers

If there’s one team known for swooping in and securing top-tier talent, it’s the Dodgers. LA is constantly in the mix for baseball’s biggest names, and with a history of shelling out lucrative deals for elite players, Soto fits their M.O. perfectly. Known for their championship-caliber roster and strong farm system, the Dodgers could provide Soto with the competitive environment he’s looking for. Plus, Los Angeles offers the added benefit of a media market as enticing as New York.

The Dodgers’ lineup, already packed with stars, would likely make room for Soto without hesitation. And while their financial outlay may not match that of the Mets or Yankees, their appeal as a championship contender might help sway Soto’s decision.

Chicago Cubs

The Cubs are another sleeper pick, with a fan base and financial power to compete. They’ve seen success in the free-agent market recently and are looking to reestablish themselves as postseason regulars after a few rebuilding years. Signing Soto would be a franchise-altering move for the Cubs, who seem determined to make a splash.

Chicago’s appeal includes a major-market setting with a historic stadium and a loyal fan base. They’ve proven they can offer big contracts, and Soto would fit perfectly with the youthful core they’re building. If the Cubs see Soto as their missing piece, they might surprise everyone with an offer that meets his price and then some.

San Francisco Giants

The Giants have also shown interest in Soto. While they missed out on some big targets in recent offseasons, they’re rumored to be heavily interested in Soto’s versatility and power. Soto would help San Francisco reach its goal of building a balanced, powerful lineup. He could also be a cornerstone as the Giants look to bridge their younger talent with the championship aspirations that the franchise is known for.

For Soto, San Francisco would offer a strong fan base and a laid-back California lifestyle, possibly adding appeal. If the Giants are willing to dig deep financially, they might make this a more interesting bidding war.

The Wild Cards

Beyond the top contenders, teams like the St. Louis Cardinals, Texas Rangers, and even the Seattle Mariners could join the race if the terms and price align. Each of these organizations could use a player of Soto’s caliber to elevate their playoff chances, and he has said he’s willing to talk to all 30 teams. It’s not impossible that a smaller-market club could swoop in with a compelling offer.

What’s Next for Soto?

No matter who lands Soto, his deal is likely to set records. With his agent Scott Boras in charge, Soto’s camp is in no rush, looking at the entirety of each team’s offer, from long-term stability to championship potential. Soto himself has kept his priorities close, only hinting that he wants to play for a contender and find the right fit.

Whichever team signs Soto will be landing a player in his prime, with years of elite production ahead. As Soto weighs his options, his next decision will change the trajectory not just of his own career but potentially of an entire franchise, bringing the kind of impact that only a once-in-a-generation talent can. For now, the season is over and the negotiations begin. But baseball fans everywhere are itching to see who makes the winning offer.