The baseball world awaits Juan Soto’s free agency decision, anticipated around the MLB Winter Meetings in early December. Five teams remain in the hunt for the star outfielder: the Boston Red Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets, New York Yankees, and Toronto Blue Jays. Initial projections placed Soto’s contract value around $600 million, but recent speculation suggests a staggering 15-year, $700 million deal is possible, extending through his age-40 season. While one team will ultimately celebrate this significant acquisition, four others will be left to strategize alternative roster improvements with the considerable funds originally earmarked for Soto.
The New York Yankees face perhaps the most significant ramifications of Soto choosing another team. Having experienced Soto’s impressive performance alongside Aaron Judge during his brief stint in the Bronx, the Yankees understand the potential impact of his absence. Soto quickly became a fan favorite and a prominent figure in New York City’s Dominican community. Beyond his on-field contributions, Soto’s star power offers substantial marketing and revenue potential. Should Soto depart, the Yankees’ compensation—a pick after the fourth round of the 2025 MLB Draft—would serve as a constant reminder of a missed opportunity. Even if the Yankees manage to sign Soto, they still face significant roster challenges, particularly concerning their infield, outfield, pitching depth, and overall talent. Losing Soto would necessitate a bold, multi-pronged approach to free agency, requiring multiple high-profile acquisitions to fill the void.
The Yankees’ third base situation demands attention. While Jazz Chisholm Jr. held his own defensively at third base after arriving from Miami in a 2024 trade, the position isn’t his natural fit. With Gleyber Torres likely departing via free agency, Chisholm Jr. would be better suited at second base. The Yankees’ .678 OPS at third base last season significantly underperformed the league average of .701, highlighting the need for improvement on both sides of the ball. Alex Bregman, though likely to re-sign with Houston, presents an enticing upgrade. Willy Adames, primarily a shortstop, offers intriguing power but carries a high strikeout rate and might be willing to switch positions. Cody Bellinger, with his player option exercised for 2025, could also be a trade target, providing versatility in the outfield and at first base. Other first base options include Pete Alonso and Christian Walker if the Yankees decide to move on from Anthony Rizzo.
The starting pitching market boasts lucrative opportunities, with Blake Snell’s five-year, $182 million deal with the Dodgers setting a high bar. Corbin Burnes and Max Fried stand out as potential targets for the Yankees. While pursuing Japanese star Roki Sasaki might be a longshot, Burnes appears to be a realistic option with a projected contract value similar to Bregman’s – around $200 million. Scott Boras, who represents both players, along with Alonso, Snell, and Soto, will be a key figure in these negotiations.
The Yankees must carefully weigh the long-term implications of a potential Soto signing. Investing $700 million in one player over 15 years presents inherent risks, especially considering the existing roster deficiencies. Contract structuring, including opt-outs and deferred compensation, becomes crucial in managing the financial burden and potential luxury tax implications. A balanced approach is essential, acknowledging both the allure of acquiring a generational talent like Soto and the necessity of bolstering other areas of the team.
As the clock ticks down on Soto’s free agency, the Yankees face a critical juncture. They must decide whether pursuing Soto is a viable path to contention or a financial gamble that could hinder long-term roster construction. If Soto chooses another team, the Yankees must pivot decisively, implementing a comprehensive strategy to address their roster weaknesses and maintain competitiveness in a fiercely competitive American League. This pivotal offseason holds the potential to reshape the Yankees’ future, either through the acquisition of a generational talent or a series of strategic moves to build a more well-rounded and formidable team. The pressure is on for the Yankees’ front office to make the right decisions and navigate this crucial period with prudence and foresight.
