The Boston Red Sox made a significant impression on Juan Soto during their recent in-person meeting with the four-time All-Star. According to reports from Sean McAdam of MassLive.com, Soto found the Red Sox's presentation noteworthy, as it outlined their future plans, player evaluation methods, top prospects nearing the major leagues, and provided details about their ownership group.
Soto, along with his agent Scott Boras, has been meeting with various teams throughout the week to gauge interest levels in signing the talented outfielder. ESPN's Jeff Passan noted that the New York Yankees and New York Mets are currently viewed as the frontrunners for Soto's signature. The Red Sox, alongside the Toronto Blue Jays, have emerged as serious contenders, while the Los Angeles Dodgers are noted as a possible option if Soto's market unexpectedly softens. Additionally, Passan mentioned that Francisco Lindor has taken part in efforts to recruit Soto to the Mets from the Yankees.
During the meeting, the Red Sox opted not to engage in discussions regarding financial aspects or contract terms, focusing instead on an introductory dialogue. Although Soto's free agency is expected to extend for a while, the Red Sox's interest represents a progressive step for a franchise that has shied away from substantial contracts in recent seasons. The team previously traded Mookie Betts to the Dodgers before the 2020 season after he declined a long-term extension, a situation Betts later contested regarding the reported offer amount. In contrast, the Red Sox did make headlines earlier this year by extending Rafael Devers with an 11-year, $331 million contract. The last significant free-agent signing for the franchise was Trevor Story in March 2022, securing him for six years at $140 million. If completed, a deal for Soto could potentially set a record for the richest contract in Red Sox history, with expectations beginning at ten years and $500 million. After experiencing playoff absences in five of the last six seasons, the arrival of Soto could provide the spark needed to rejuvenate the fanbase, especially following his successful season with the Yankees in 2024, where he showcased a batting average of .288 with a career-high 41 home runs and emerged as a finalist for the AL MVP award alongside Aaron Judge and Bobby Witt Jr.
