As MLB free agency looms, the New York Yankees and New York Mets are setting the stage for what could be one of the biggest bidding wars in baseball history, with 25-year-old star Juan Soto at the center. Known for his potential to become one of the all-time greats, Soto is expected to command a contract in the range of $550-560 million, according to ESPN’s Kylie McDaniel. Both New York teams have deep pockets and the drive to win, making them prime contenders to secure Soto’s talents.
McDaniel notes that Soto’s decision could hinge on the Yankees’ postseason outcome. “If the Yankees win [the World Series], he returns. If the Yankees lose, he goes to the Mets,” McDaniel suggested in a conversation with Buster Olney on Baseball Tonight. The implication? A Yankees championship could entice Soto to stay and chase multiple titles in the Bronx, while a Mets offer of $550 million or more might lure him to Queens.
For Mets owner Steve Cohen, who has already proven he’s not afraid to spend big, landing Soto could cement his reputation as the game-changer New York has been waiting for. Buster Olney believes the Mets’ recent success, especially if they reach the World Series, could light a fire under Cohen, pushing him to pull out all stops to get Soto. “If they end up reaching the World Series…owners get excited…there’s no way that you can do more to feed that than signing Juan Soto,” Olney said.
While the Yankees bring a legacy of championships, the Mets are on the rise and have the financial flexibility to build a powerhouse. For Soto, who craves titles as much as a record-breaking payday, it could come down to Cohen’s willingness to spend and the Mets’ potential to reshape New York baseball.
With a contract likely to break records and a rivalry ready to heat up, New York may be on the brink of witnessing the ultimate showdown for one of baseball’s biggest stars. Where will Juan Soto call home—will he continue the Yankees’ historic legacy, or will he embrace the new era with the Mets?
