Ever since a legend like Derek Jeter said in the middle of this season that he would like to see Juan Soto join the New York Yankees, the rumors in the MLB have not stopped.
A deal wasn’t completed before the trade deadline, but the Bronx team’s failure in the major leagues this season makes another attempt worthwhile.
The 24-year-old Soto’s arrival at Yankee Stadium would provide a solution to several needs: He would be the starter in left field they have been looking for since the winter of 2022, the left-handed hitter who would provide balance and depth to the lineup and also to the star who helps turn the tide after the disaster of 2023.
Although the Dominican star has dispelled any doubts about his performance after two poor seasons, his numbers this year (.262 average, 30 home runs, 28 doubles and 92 RBIs) were not enough to convince the San Diego Padres to give him a contract extension.
For that reason, Soto is expected to be used as a bargaining chip in the offseason as he enters his final year as an arbitrator before becoming a free agent.
Despite all the benefits that come with his acquisition, the Yankees have a lot to consider. Not only because the negotiations would involve paying the requested $500 million, but also because of the high price they will have to pay for it.
https://twitter.com/EmpireSportsMed/status/1701579945984803057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
New York’s top politicians have refused to give up on their top trade prospects, but this time there will be no escape. If they want Soto, they will have to sacrifice some of their promises.
Some analysts believe the package the Yankees can offer will be headlined by 27-year-old right-hander Clarke Schmidt and will certainly feature the name of Venezuelan prospect Everson Pereira.
Drew Thorpe, Richard Fitts and Yoendrys Gómez could complete the list, with San Diego potentially asking to add Spencer Jones.
