Yankees Has Finally Re-Sign Juan Soto.
Owner Hal Steinbrenner recently stated that he would think about discussing a contract extension in the midst of the season to ensure talented outfielder Juan Soto stays with the Yankees for the long run. That is how much the New York Yankees are in love with him.
It’s not something New York usually does, and generally speaking, you don’t see guys doing that. especially if they are customers of Scott Boras.
The prospects of the Yanks being able to sign Soto, an upcoming free agency, midseason are little to none, according to one American League executive.
According to MLB.com’s Mark Feinsand, the executive stated, “I think he ultimately signs back with the Yankees, but Scott takes his guys into free agency.”
Juan Soto seems to fit perfectly with the Yankees
When star players go to the Yankees, a rough start is often in the cards due to all of the pressure that comes with playing for one of the most storied franchises in sports.
Soto hasn’t had that problem.
The 25-year-old is slashing .316/.415/.551 with 11 home runs and 37 RBI across 224 plate appearances this season. Not only that, but Soto, who is not known for his defensive prowess, has actually done a tremendous job in right field, posting a 8.5 UZR/150 thus far.
Plus, Soto has really ingratiated himself with the New York fans. He frequently engages with the Yankees faithful during games and has instantly become a fan favorite. Given the way he has performed thus far, how could the fans not love him?
The Dominican native began his career with the Washington Nationals after signing with them as an international free agent in 2015.
Soto spent the first four-and-a-half years of his career in Washington before being traded to the San Diego Padres midway through the 2022 campaign. He actually struggled with the Padres in 2022, slashing .236/.388/.390 with six home runs and 16 RBI in 52 games. However, last season, Soto returned to his old self, registering a slash line of .275/.410/.519 with 35 long balls and 109 RBI.
Because San Diego did not think it would be able to afford Soto once he hits free agency next winter, the Padres dealt him to the Yankees this past offseason.
Soto boasts a career slash line of .286/.421/.526 and has made three All-Star appearances. He appears to be well on his way to a fourth this year.
The Yanks may not be able to extend Soto during the season, but it seems hard to imagine Steinbrenner allowing him to walk next offseason.
