With the close of the 2024 MLB season, the free agency market is heating up, and Juan Soto stands as one of its brightest stars. As teams assess their rosters and prepare to invest, Soto’s next contract promises to be historic, positioning him as the player to watch this offseason.
Player Profile and Recent Performance-
- **Name:** Juan Soto
- **Position:** Outfielder
- **Current Team:** New York Yankees
- **Age at 2025 Opening Day:** 26
- **2024 Season Stats:** .288/.419/.569 batting line, 41 HR, 109 RBIs, 128 runs, 178 OPAfter turning down a 15-year, $440 million offer from the Nationals in 2022, Soto’s intention to test free agency was clear. Now, after a sensational season with the Yankees, which included a trip to the World Series, Soto has entered the market as the most high-profile free agent in baseball. His potential next contract is likely to set new records for total guaranteed dollars and average annual value.
Contract Expectations: Challenging Ohtani’s Record
The bar for contracts was set sky-high when Shohei Ohtani signed a groundbreaking 10-year, $700 million deal with the Dodgers, albeit with $680 million deferred until 2034. The present-day value of that deal is around $460 million, equating to an average annual value (AAV) of roughly $46 million. Many experts expect Soto’s next contract to surpass $50 million per season over at least a 10-year period, given his age and prime performance.
Potential Landing Spots for Soto
New York Yankees
Soto's one-year stint with the Yankees was nothing short of extraordinary. His numbers rivaled MVP-level performance, making a powerful impact alongside Aaron Judge and driving the Yankees to the AL East title and their first World Series in 15 years. With over $80 million coming off the books this offseason, the Yankees may have the financial flexibility to retain Soto—though doing so could mean committing over $90 million annually to both Soto and Judge.
New York Mets
While the Yankees might be the frontrunner, the Mets have shown willingness to make bold financial moves under owner Steve Cohen. Should president of baseball operations David Stearns see Soto as the missing piece for a team that made the NLCS, the Mets may make an aggressive play to keep him in New York.
Los Angeles Dodgers
After witnessing the Dodgers’ success firsthand in the World Series, Soto could see himself fitting into their already stacked lineup, joining stars like Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman. With over $50 million in contracts expiring, the Dodgers are in a strong position to compete for any high-profile player, especially given their recent precedent with Ohtani’s mega-deal.
Washington Nationals
A return to the Nationals could be a sentimental choice for Soto, given his early years and World Series victory with the team in 2019. With top prospects James Wood, Dylan Crews, and Jacob Young now in the majors, the Nationals could benefit from Soto’s powerful bat once again. However, Washington’s willingness to match the substantial financial demands remains uncertain.
San Francisco Giants
The Giants have actively pursued marquee-free agents in recent years, including unsuccessful attempts to land Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani. New team president Buster Posey may look to secure Soto, who has hit well at Oracle Park with seven home runs and a 1.050 OPS in 22 career games.
Philadelphia Phillies
With friendly faces like Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Kyle Schwarber on the Phillies roster, along with Soto’s rapport with hitting coach Kevin Long, Philadelphia has a strong case for attracting Soto. President of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski is known for making bold moves, and if ownership is on board financially, the Phillies could emerge as a competitive bidder.
The Stakes of the 2024-25 Offseason
As Juan Soto enters free agency, his path will likely redefine the landscape for future contracts in MLB. The Yankees’ decision, along with significant interest from other top teams, has the potential to set new standards in the league. Soto’s choice could not only impact the fortunes of the franchise that signs him but also set the stage for future mega-deals across baseball.
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