Entering today’s MLB games, the Yankees stand proudly at the top of the American League East with the best overall record in baseball. Their dominant start to the season owes much to Juan Soto, whose impressive performance has placed him firmly in contention for the AL MVP in 2024.
Despite his popularity among Yankees fans, Soto’s future with the team is uncertain as he heads into MLB free agency this winter. His stellar season comes just after he turned down a $440 million offer from the Washington Nationals a few years ago, leaving many speculating about his potential asking price.
On Tuesday, ESPN MLB reporter Kiley McDaniel gathered insights from 28 league executives about Soto’s potential contract cost. Three executives suggested deals worth $600 million or more (14 years/$600 million, 12 years/$605 million, 10 years/$655 million).
Soto’s 2024 stats are impressive: a .318 batting average, .425 on-base percentage, .599 slugging percentage, and 1.024 OPS, with 17 home runs, 53 RBIs, and 50 runs scored. While these figures suggest an astronomical contract, it would still be $100 million less than Shohei Ohtani’s deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers, though potentially higher in annual value due to fewer deferments.
The majority of the executives—14 of them—predicted a deal in the range of $500-$590 million for the soon-to-be four-time All-Star. Popular suggestions included 12 years/$500 million and 13 years/$500 million, with one executive proposing a 14-year, $588 million deal.
Just a few months ago, projections for Soto’s contract were in the half-billion range. However, given his current season’s performance, the Yankees will likely need to spend around $600 million to retain their star outfielder in the Bronx.
