As the MLB world buzzes with playoff excitement, one name keeps popping up in every free agency conversation—Juan Soto. The Yankees’ right fielder is set to become one of the most coveted players in free agency, with a staggering price tag of $500 million. But while teams like the Mets, Blue Jays, and even Soto’s former Nationals are eyeing him, there’s one contender that seems to have already bowed out: the Philadelphia Phillies. And fans can’t stop talking about it.
Phillies president Dave Dombrowski has been dropping hints that the team might not be pursuing big-name stars like Soto this off-season. “I don’t necessarily think that the answer is always a star player,” Dombrowski said, signaling that a massive slugger might not be in the Phillies’ plans. With two $300 million contracts already on the books—Bryce Harper and Trea Turner—the Phillies may simply be unwilling to cough up another $500 million for Soto. Jim Salisbury of The Phillies Show echoed this, noting that while Soto would be an amazing addition, the financial burden just doesn’t make sense for the Phillies.
But wait—are the Phillies making a mistake by not going all in on Soto, or are they playing it smart? Enter Tyler O’Neill. The 30-year-old Red Sox slugger has hit 31 home runs this season and is about to hit free agency. FanSided’s Christopher Kline suggests O’Neill could be the perfect fit for the Phillies, bringing power and consistency against left-handed pitching. And with a projected five-year deal worth $90 million, O’Neill’s price tag is a lot easier to swallow than Soto’s.
So, what’s the move for the Phillies? Are they dodging a financial bullet by passing on Soto, or should they be taking a bigger swing in free agency? Let us know what you think in the comments—this decision could shape the Phillies’ future for years to come!
