MLB
Will Juan Soto resign with the Yankees? This is what we know
The most unanswered question of the whole 2024 Major League Baseball season was where the Dominican free agent would finish after playing for the Yankees.
The Dodgers fantastically won the World Series, beating the Yankees 4-1, and now, as the MLB’s offseason approaches, the year-round focus will shift again to star outfielder Juan Soto.
Soto may find himself at the center of a bidding war between New York’s two powerhouse franchises, the Yankees and the Mets. The Dominican outfielder, who had a standout season with the Yankees, is expected to be a top target for the team, aiming to keep him in the Bronx. However, with Mets owner Steve Cohen poised to compete aggressively in the free-agent market, the Mets are also in the mix.
Mets or the Yankees - Who has more money and more championship material to offer?
Yankees
Having played for both New York teams, Soto has had the chance to experience the unique cultures of each organization. The Yankees' commitment to championship-caliber rosters could offer an edge because every player knows that playing for the Yankees is unique; there’s an expectation to win every season, and Soto’s felt that energy all year.
Soto’s impressive season with the Yankees displayed his values, and his chemistry with teammate Aaron Judge certainly will make appealing to his staying in pinstripes. Judge’s role as a power-hitter behind Soto offers protection unmatched by any Mets lineup combination.
Mets
However, the Mets owner’s deep pockets and their successful season signal that the Yankees face stiff competition. While Soto’s time with the Yankees has been ideal, Cohen is absolutely capable of upping the ante with a huge offer.
This suggests that the Mets’ owner might go as far as to outbid the Yankees significantly if he believes Soto is the missing piece to postseason success. Still, most think the Yankees’ established roster and potential competitive offer will ultimately sway Soto to remain.
Soto’s patient hitting makes him a difficult matchup for pitchers, as he excels at working counts and drawing walks. If he stays with the Yankees, he would benefit from Judge’s strong presence in the lineup. With the Mets, he would pair with Francisco Lindor, who is solid but lacks Judge’s power.