Juan Soto is the most sought-after free agent this offseason. At just 26, he is projected to receive at least 600 million dollars. As teams enter the mix for Soto, it begs the question, who is most likely to acquire him?
Who Will Sign Juan Soto: Ranking the Contenders
New York Mets- VERY high chance
The New York Yankees know that if Juan Soto signs for the team with the most significant amount of money, it is the Mets. The Mets will sign a superstar this offseason, and their target is Soto. The Mets are easily ranked number one on this list, as New York is determined and willing to give Soto what he desires. It also helps that Steve Cohen is the wealthiest owner in the MLB. Steve Cohen reportedly is willing to pay 50 million more than any other offer- which is very hard to beat. The Mets don’t seem willing to lose Soto to anyone.
New York Yankees- high chance
Soto may still sign with the Yankees for several reasons. First, Soto was surrounded by a lot of talent (albeit the Mets have that too). Second, the Yankees can still pay a lot for Soto. Lastly, Soto wants to win the World Series again, and if he signs with the Yankees, Soto knows that a World Series is probably in his future. Even though the Yankees don’t seem too likely to sign him, the Yankees remain interested and reportedly are willing to pay a lot for him. The Yankees are still in the mix.
Boston Red Sox- medium chance
Are the Boston Red Sox finally willing to spend money this offseason? Perhaps. This means that the Red Sox can technically win over Juan Soto. The Red Sox reportedly had a “very well” meeting with Soto, who seemed interested. Unfortunately, competing with both New York teams and Soto’s desire to sign with a winning team might kill the Red Sox’s chances of getting him. However, the Red Sox are interested and are trying hard to win. Therefore, you can expect aggression from Boston. They, too, are in the mix for Soto.
Los Angeles Dodgers- medium chance
The Los Angeles Dodgers are probably unwilling to spend too much money on Soto. However, the Dodgers are interested and are set to meet with Soto. Perhaps the Dodgers will go after Soto hard and will not back down. However, of course, the competition is very stiff. The Dodgers cannot be counted out, however. The Dodgers aren’t afraid to spend money or be a force in free agency. Again, this team will be very interested in Soto and be considered a contender.
Toronto Blue Jays- low chance
The Toronto Blue Jays are known for spending a lot of money to become the best in the AL East. This team met with Soto and is considered a genuine contender for the great player. Toronto can afford him, but he will be aggressive. However, the Blue Jays still have a low chance of prying Soto away from the Yankees, Mets, and more. Why? Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerero Jr. are free agents next season, and Soto wants to go to a team that wins. This hampers their chances but doesn’t eliminate them; Toronto has a chance at signing Soto.
Philadelphia Phillies- meager chance
The Phillies want to spend money. However, they probably don’t have an opportunity to sign Soto. As was mentioned before, if Soto intends to go to a team with money, he will sign with the Mets. Still, the Phils want to win badly and might decide to do or die. Soto is likely a dream for Philly. Dreams can come true, though.
Washington Nationals- good luck, Charlie!
Does Soto want to return to old memories and sign with the Washington Nationals? Probably not, so the Nationals have almost no chance. However, if Soto intends to return to his old home, he can. The Nationals can afford him. However, Soto wants a team that wins, not a team that hasn’t had a good season since he was 20. Soto could be in a National. However, there isn’t much of a chance.
Mystery teams- Texas Rangers, Tampa Bay Rays, Atlanta Braves, Houston Astros- Ya Gotta Believe.
NO, a mystery team is probably not happening. However, in the event of a massive surprise, many teams could sign Soto. But in all likelihood, watch the Mets, Yankees, Dodgers, Red Sox and more.
In conclusion, Soto remains a massive free agent who can sign a lot of places. So many teams might have a chance at signing Soto. In the end, whoever does could be great for years to come.
Main Image: © Brad Penner-Imagn Images
