The New York Yankees and the San Diego Padres had one disappointing year in common. Both clubs heavily underachieved all of 2023, leading to both missing the postseason. Reports, per Andy Martino, have now revealed that preliminary talks have been held between the two clubs. Those talks were regarding superstar outfielder, Juan Soto.
Soto, entering his age 25 season, has been one of the games most exciting young players in recent history. After his trade to San Diego from the Washington Nationals, his numbers have dropped a bit. With the Padres wanting to shed payroll, Soto is due for a massive payday come the 2024 offseason. Expectations around the league is that Soto could be moved for "the right price".
In come the New York Yankees. However, these are not the Yankees of old. The "Evil Empire" as some would say. Signing aging players and not having enough offense has been the Yankees M.O. as of recent history. Some may even say the Yankees have become a shell of their former self. Well, here's their chance to prove them wrong.
Yankees GM Brian Cashman has been getting ridiculed by Yankee fans for not making the proper moves and being the main reason why they haven't been back in the Fall Classic in almost 15 years. A blockbuster move like acquiring Juan Soto could be a last shot of saving his job.
Andy Martino of SNY, reported that the Yankees could have a deal in place that replicates the Mookie Betts deal. Names that were reported were 1B Anthony Rizzo, INF Oswald Peraza, a top prospect, and a few middle of the road prospects.
Although these talks have not gained traction, the Yankees need to make some major moves this offseason to get back to their roots. This deal in itself would significantly make them that much better. Soto is a lefty bat who provides everything of a 5-tool player. A perfect fit for Yankee Stadium.
Unclear whether or not the Yankees will finally pull the trigger on a trade such as this one, but fans have been becoming restless with the front office. If Hal Steinbrenner and Brian Cashman want to win the fans back, starting off with a trade for Juan Soto would be exactly what could get those Yankee fans back on their side.