The New York Mets are burdened by significant financial obligations to former players, such as Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander, amounting to over $30 million and $25 million respectively. However, ESPN MLB insider Buster Olney disclosed that once these financial commitments are cleared, the Mets are planning to pursue the most talented projected free agent in the market.
According to Olney, the Mets’ camp revealed their intention to make a move for Juan Soto next winter, which isn’t surprising given the impending relief from contracts like Scherzer’s. This plan indicates the team’s focus on returning to the playoffs soon, as Olney noted that unlike some tanking teams, the Mets are willing to take on Soto’s salary.
Soto, who was recently traded to the New York Yankees, is anticipated to secure one of the largest contracts in MLB history for the 2025 season and beyond. Tim Britton of The Athletic predicts that Soto’s next contract could span 14 years and amount to $540 million.
Why the New York Mets Could Be a Good Fit for Juan Soto
Over his six seasons in the major leagues, the 25-year-old Juan Soto has established himself as one of the premier hitters in recent MLB history. His impressive career statistics, boasting a .284 batting average, .421 on-base percentage, and .521 slugging percentage, suggest that he may still be improving as he matures. In 2023, he achieved career highs with 35 home runs, nearly matching his best RBI count with 109, and led the MLB with 132 walks. Soto’s accolades include four Silver Slugger Awards, two selections to the All-MLB First Team, and three All-Star appearances. He also earned the MVP title during the 2019 World Series when the Washington Nationals clinched the championship.
Given his remarkable track record, it’s evident why any competitive team would covet Soto if he becomes available. The New York Mets, in particular, are expected to be keen on acquiring him, especially after a relatively quiet offseason.
According to a report by Peter Sblendorio in the New York Daily News, the Mets, under the ownership of Steve Cohen, mostly refrained from pursuing top-tier free agents during the recent offseason, aside from an unsuccessful bid to sign Japanese pitcher Yoshibonu Yamamoto. However, it’s anticipated that the Mets will adopt a different approach in the upcoming offseason, likely due to their eagerness to spend.
Moreover, the Mets face the prospect of losing their current top hitter in the same free-agent class where Soto is expected to be available. As noted by Bridget Hyland in NJ.com, Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns indicated before spring training that it’s probable for Pete Alonso, the team’s slugger, to enter free agency.
The New York Mets Could Face a Bidding War With the New York Yankees to Sign Juan Soto
\The New York Yankees, Soto’s current team and cross-town rival of the Mets, are anticipated to be contenders for Soto’s services in 2025. Should the Mets pursue Soto, it could spark a bidding war between the two New York clubs. The Yankees are also expected to make an effort to retain the slugger, particularly after trading five players, notably pitchers Michael King and Drew Thorpe, to acquire him along with outfielder Trent Grisham, as highlighted by Sblendorio.
Leave a Reply