As New York Yankees slugger Juan Soto approaches his free agency decision, club owner Hal Steinbrenner is reportedly planning a visit to meet with the star. According to reports, Steinbrenner is expected to travel to Southern California to meet with Soto and his agent, Scott Boras, in approximately a week and a half.
In addition to the Yankees, the New York Mets under owner Steve Cohen are also making moves to engage with Soto, as confirmed by a report indicating that Cohen will travel to meet with the outfielder next week. However, the Mets and Yankees are not alone in pursuing the talented 26-year-old. The Toronto Blue Jays, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, Boston Red Sox, and Tampa Bay Rays have all expressed interest in adding Soto to their rosters.
The competition for Soto's services may center heavily on the Mets, given their significant interest. In a previous meeting in July, Soto and Steinbrenner discussed the outfielder's experience in his first season with the Yankees, ahead of his impending free agency. Soto reflected positively on the interaction, noting the importance of having an owner who shows genuine concern for players. Soto's inaugural season in New York proved successful, as he achieved impressive stats, including a .288 batting average, 41 home runs, and 109 RBIs during the 2024 campaign, culminating in a notable postseason performance that helped the Yankees reach the Fall Classic.
The Mets are likely to intensify their efforts to incorporate Soto into a lineup that already features standout players, including four-time All-Star shortstop Francisco Lindor and emerging talent, third baseman Mark Vientos. Meanwhile, the Mets also face decisions regarding their own free-agent slugger Pete Alonso, who led the team with 34 home runs in the 2024 season. As Soto engages in discussions with both Steinbrenner and Cohen, these meetings could play a crucial role in influencing his final decision.
