In September, USA Today’s MLB insider Bob Nightengale reported that the Toronto Blue Jays are likely to make an effort to sign All-Star outfielder from the New York Yankees when he enters free agency.
In a recent article, Randy Miller from NJ Advance Media revealed that a friend of Soto, who is also a former teammate and represented by agent Scott Boras, believes the Blue Jays will go beyond just initial outreach to Soto’s camp after the World Series.
“Expect the Blue Jays to present an enormous offer,” the friend stated, claiming to have firsthand knowledge. Soto, who was traded to the Yankees from the San Diego Padres in December 2023, has enjoyed playing in New York’s vibrant sports market. Nightengale previously suggested that Soto will ultimately sign with either the Yankees or the Mets, with Mets owner Steve Cohen potentially offering a contract nearing $600 million next month.
“The contract needs to start with a six,” the friend added, noting Soto’s age and expressing skepticism about Soto accepting deferred money. He also mentioned uncertainty regarding whether Soto would pass up a financial opportunity to stay with the Yankees. Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner had earlier raised concerns about the team’s long-term payroll sustainability due to luxury-tax implications, leaving questions about the Blue Jays’ willingness to compete financially with both the Yankees and the Mets.
“The Blue Jays believe Soto would be a great fit for their lineup,” the friend remarked, comparing a potential Soto-Guerrero Jr. duo to the successful pairing of Soto and Aaron Judge this season for the Yankees. While the friend acknowledged that no one can predict Soto’s decision once he can engage with other teams, he emphasized that Soto and his teammates are currently focused on advancing past the Kansas City Royals in their tied AL Division Series, which resumes Wednesday evening at Kauffman Stadium.
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