The New York Yankees are ramping up their efforts to retain free agent star Juan Soto, according to MLB insider Jon Heyman. The team has recently raised their initial offer to demonstrate their commitment to securing his services amid intense competition from other clubs. Heyman noted that the bidding process is still in its early stages, with several teams, including the New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Dodgers, expressing strong interest in the 26-year-old slugger. This highlights Soto’s widespread appeal and market value.
As the second round of bidding begins, the Yankees are not only focused on Soto but also engaged with top-tier starting pitchers like Corbin Burnes and Max Fried. They previously showed interest in Blake Snell before his deal with the Dodgers, but keeping Soto remains their primary goal as they aim to strengthen their roster with elite talent.
Soto, who is seeking a 15-year contract that could extend into his 40s, has drawn the Yankees’ attention, with the team showing flexibility by offering opt-out clauses. This reflects the franchise’s recognition of his immense value and their determination to meet his demands while staying competitive with other suitors.
After a standout first season with the Yankees following his trade from the San Diego Padres, Soto is poised to secure a historic contract, potentially surpassing $600 million and even challenging Shohei Ohtani’s record $700 million deal. The Yankees recently met with Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, in California, signaling a more aggressive approach as negotiations heat up. With Soto’s extraordinary talent and the financial stakes at play, his signing has become one of the offseason’s most compelling storylines.
