The New York Yankees and New York Mets may be the leading contenders to sign superstar outfielder Juan Soto, but they’re facing a serious challenge from an unexpected competitor: the Toronto Blue Jays. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Blue Jays have emerged as a “viable obstacle” in the Soto sweepstakes, with Toronto reportedly showing strong motivation to bring Soto north of the border.
“Word is they are highly motivated and sources suggest they plan to be in big,” Heyman reported, underscoring the Blue Jays’ serious intent. Heyman added that the bidding has narrowed to eight teams: the Yankees, Mets, Blue Jays, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, Boston Red Sox, and two other unnamed “mystery” teams. Team representatives are expected to start meeting with Soto next week to make their cases.
Soto recently completed a stellar age-25 season with the Yankees, helping the team reach their first World Series since 2009. In just one season in New York, Soto posted an impressive .989 OPS, hitting 41 home runs, scoring a league-best 128 runs, and recording 7.9 bWAR. His performance has earned him a spot as an MVP finalist in the American League, alongside teammate Aaron Judge and Kansas City’s Bobby Witt Jr.
While Soto has expressed enjoyment playing in New York, he’s also made it clear that he’s open to offers from other teams. The Yankees have repeatedly stated that retaining Soto is their top offseason priority, mirroring the effort they made to re-sign Judge two years ago. But the Blue Jays are in a win-now window of their own, with stars Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Bo Bichette entering their final year of team control. Both players are likely to command significant contracts if they reach free agency, so the Blue Jays may see Soto as a way to build on their roster and secure a longer-term star presence.
Toronto’s push for Soto comes after a frustrating 2024 season, in which the Blue Jays finished last in the AL East with a disappointing 74-88 record, despite carrying a payroll that exceeded $200 million. The Blue Jays reportedly attempted to trade for Soto last year before the Yankees ultimately succeeded in acquiring him from the San Diego Padres.
However, Heyman also acknowledged that Toronto could face some roadblocks in this pursuit. The team has struggled to attract marquee stars in recent years, partly due to higher taxes and the challenges that come with playing in Canada.
For Soto, who seems focused on joining a winning team, every known suitor either currently fits that description or could be competitive by 2025. His priority, he’s hinted, is finding a team that truly values him—a signal that he’s likely seeking a substantial, long-term contract. According to Heyman, one general manager believes Soto may be looking for a 15-year deal with an average annual value exceeding the $40 million per year that Judge is currently making.
The competition for Soto’s signature is expected to be fierce, but if the Blue Jays can overcome the challenges, they could have a shot at landing one of baseball’s most sought-after talents.
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