The New York Yankees are gearing up for their most important game of the season on Wednesday night, facing off against the Kansas City Royals in Game 3 of the ALDS. The stakes couldn’t be higher: after losing Game 2 at home, New York has lost its home-field advantage, and another defeat would push them to the brink of elimination and raise serious questions about the future of the franchise. Aaron Judge and Gerrit Cole are aging and dealing with health issues, and there’s the looming $500 million question of free-agent-to-be Juan Soto.
The Yankees knew this situation was coming when they traded for Soto from the San Diego Padres last winter. They were aware that Soto was in the final year of his contract and that his agent, Scott Boras, would push for free agency rather than an extension. At 25, Soto is poised for a record-breaking contract, and with his free agency possibly just days away, interest in him is already heating up.
It’s no secret that the Yankees will do everything they can to retain Soto, but they’ll face stiff competition, especially from the crosstown Mets led by Steve Cohen. Plenty of other teams with large payrolls could also be in the mix, and according to a recent report, one surprising team might be preparing a massive offer.
Randy Miller of NJ.com suggests that the Toronto Blue Jays could make a serious play for Soto. Miller spoke with a former teammate of Soto, who hinted that the Blue Jays might put forth an “astronomical offer.” The source added that Toronto’s management sees Soto as a perfect fit for their lineup alongside Vladimir Guerrero Jr., similar to how Soto and Aaron Judge have been for the Yankees.
While it’s unclear if Soto would seriously consider Toronto, the possibility exists. The Blue Jays have the financial resources, and they were close to landing Shohei Ohtani last offseason. Coming off a disappointing season and with Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette nearing the ends of their contracts, Toronto could be at a turning point. Adding Soto could help them return to contention and persuade their homegrown stars to stay long-term. Plus, with a need for a left-handed bat and an outfielder following George Springer’s decline, Soto could be an ideal fit.
This is all speculation for now, but the bidding war for Soto will undoubtedly be fierce and could lead to a historic contract. The Los Angeles Dodgers, known for making big moves, and the Philadelphia Phillies might also enter the mix, especially if the Dodgers fall short in the NLDS. Soto’s friend predicts the outfielder’s next contract could start with a 6, not a 5, suggesting a potential $600 million deal over 15 years with no deferred money.