Juan Soto is set to play his first season as a New York Yankee, but will this be his only season with the team?
One MLB insider thinks it’s a real possibility, and he named one team he believes is the “biggest threat” to steal Soto away from his new team after the season.
TAMPA, FL – FEBRUARY 22: Juan Soto #22 of the New York Yankees smiles during spring training at George M. Steinbrenner Field on February 22, 2024 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by New York Yankees/Getty Images)
New York Yankees/Getty Images
The New York Post’s Jon Heyman believes the New York Mets pose the greatest challenge to the Yankees when it comes to retaining Soto on a long-term basis after the 2024 season.
Heyman says the Mets are worth watching when it comes to Soto for a few reasons.
First, owner Steve Cohen has informed players that he will be ready to spend again in 2025.
The Mets are taking an understandable break from splashing the cash this offseason after last year’s disastrous result, but Cohen appears to be ready to make another run next year.
Next, nearly $90 million in annual salary will come off the Mets’ books after this season, with departed pitchers Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander on expiring deals.
Heyman also says that new Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns wants to prioritize free agents under the age of 28. Soto certainly fits that mold, as he’ll turn 26 in late October.
Other teams around the league will also be in on Soto after his year with the Yankees is over, but a move across town may be the most attractive option.
Shohei Ohtani opted for a similar move when he left the Angels for the Dodgers this year. Soto could do the same, trading his Bronx residency for a spot at the table in Queens in 2025 and beyond.
