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TheNew York Yankees and the San Diego Padres had underwhelming seasons, as both were favorites to reach the playoffs and win the World Series before the 2023 MLB season. However, both teams missed October with two of the highest payrolls in the league, with their front offices already looking into solving some issues within their teams.
That would mean both teams could work out a deal regarding outfielder Juan Soto, as reports indicate that the teams are already in talks regarding a potential move for the All-Star slugger next season.
Juan Soto to the Bronx?
According to Andy Martino of SNY, both Yankees and Padres already had 'preliminary talks' regarding a potential trade for Dominican superstar slugger Juan Soto. However, it is noted that the conversations have not progressed beyond an initial between both front offices.
Martino states that the Padres are still not looking into a rebuild or a huge revamping of the roster, as they are not actively shopping Soto around the league looking for a trade, even though they let their now-former manager Bob Melvin go to division rivals San Francisco Giants, being committed already to several big contracts to players like Manny Machado, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Xander Bogaerts.
Juan Soto had yet another All-Star caliber season
Juan Soto will become a free agent after the 2024 MLB season, and he's expected to make more than $30 million in arbitration in the final year of his contract, which means that the Padres may not be getting a huge package deal for a rental of the 25-year-old Dominican All-Star.
Soto had a slash line of .275/.410/.519 with 35 HRs and 109 RBIs, leading the Majors in walks for the third year in a row with 132. He had a 158 OPS+ during the 2023 season, was named to his third All-Star Game, and earned $23 million through salary arbitration.