Juan Soto’s free agency has become a focal point of discussion among baseball fans, with reports suggesting that at least five teams have already submitted initial offers to the 26-year-old slugger. However, questions loom over whether the New York Yankees can realistically retain him without making significant roster changes.
Recently retired outfielder and renowned defensive specialist Kevin Kiermaier believes the Yankees might face difficulties in keeping Soto unless they trade one of their star players. Kiermaier, celebrated for his defensive prowess, secured four Gold Gloves and a Platinum Glove during his 12-year career. After spending a decade with the Tampa Bay Rays, he played for the Toronto Blue Jays in 2023 before joining the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024. He capped off his career with a World Series win before announcing his retirement.
Appearing on the “Kasa de Klub” podcast, Kiermaier weighed in on the Yankees’ situation, noting their already substantial payroll obligations. He specifically mentioned stars such as Gerrit Cole, Giancarlo Stanton, and Aaron Judge as critical assets the team is unlikely to trade. “They got Stanton, Judge, Cole,” he said. “And I know they are not afraid of the luxury tax. But they’ve got a lot to maintain over there. Unless they can move some pieces, which I don’t think they would be willing to do, it’s going to be tough.” Kiermaier added that trading key players like Cole, Judge, Stanton, or Carlos Rodón seems improbable.
The Yankees entered the 2024 season with the second-highest payroll in MLB, approximately $309.5 million, according to Sportrac. This financial backdrop poses challenges for a team looking to re-sign Soto, who is expected to command a record-breaking contract.
Soto, who earned $31 million during his single season with the Yankees, finished third in the 2024 AL MVP voting. Reports suggest his agent, Scott Boras, will not consider any offer below $600 million, potentially setting a new record for the largest contract in MLB history for a position player.
The competition for Soto’s signature is intense. Teams such as the New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, Boston Red Sox, and Toronto Blue Jays have reportedly met with the star outfielder in recent weeks. While the Mets are considered the frontrunners, it remains early in the offseason, making any immediate signing unlikely.