The 2024-2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) offseason is now upon us, and while many free agents are entering the market, none stand out quite like Juan Soto. The 26-year-old corner outfielder is expected to be targeted by multiple teams and receive a contract north of $500 million.  

Soto first signed an MLB contract with the Washington Nationals as an international free agent in 2015 when he was 16. He eventually made his major league debut with the team in 2018 at 19, quickly becoming one of the league’s exciting young players. During his five-year tenure, he helped win a World Series championship, earning himself a Babe Ruth award, and later added an All-Star selection and a batting title to his resume.

In August 2022, Soto was traded to the San Diego Padres, where he spent the next two seasons, earning himself more accolades, including a Silver Slugger Award.

Finally, in the last year of his contract, he was traded to the New York Yankees. Soto delivered an MVP-caliber season in his contract year. Slashing .288/.419/.569 with 41 home runs, 109 runs-batted-in (RBI) and 129 walks, including an excellent postseason performance. 

As the Yankees fall short of a World Series, losing 4-1 to the Los Angeles Dodgers, their case for re-signing Soto in free agency now seems weaker. Following the game 5 loss, Soto was asked if his perception of his preference to stay in New York was true, and he responded with, “I don’t think so.” 

He also highlighted that he will be available for all 30 teams, saying, “I think every team has the same opportunities as I go into free agency.”

Due to his young age and consistent production at the plate, the superstar is believed to be looking for a long-term contract with a large annual salary, closing in on historic levels. Jon Heyman reported that 11 teams had already been interested in Soto by Thursday morning.

The top contenders among these teams are the New York Yankees, New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers and the Philadelphia Phillies. Each of these teams is in huge markets and has shown their willingness to spend money in the past. 

Breaking down the top contenders:

Yankees – Juan Soto had a career year with the Yankees in the 2024 season. He seemed to be a perfect fit. He and Aaron Judge formed one of the most dangerous duos in the league. With Soto being one of the Yankees’ only consistent hitters this season, losing him would be a major blow to the team. The Yankees will go all in on trying to make Soto a Yankee for life. 

Mets – The Mets pose the biggest threat to the Yankees in the Soto sweepstakes. Mets owner Steve Cohen has expressed that he is willing to offer Soto a large sum of money. With their location advantage and aggressive approach, the Mets will be a top contender for Soto.

Dodgers – Fresh off their World Series win, the Dodgers could be an attractive option for Soto. During the All-Star break, Soto mentioned Shohei Ohtani as a player he’d love to play up with, and with the Dodgers freeing up around $50 million in contracts, they could make a serious push for Soto.

Phillies – In Washington, Soto played with now-Phillies teammates Bryce Harper, Trea Turner and Kyle Schwarber. With the Phillies’ need for a strong outfield talent, they may use these familiar faces to their advantage. 

Soto’s decision will loom large in the coming months of the offseason. Wherever he lands, the impact will be felt not only on the field but also across the league, as his contract could set a new benchmark for future free agents. As the bidding war heats up, all eyes remain on the 26-year-old superstar set to make history.