The future of New York Yankees star Juan Soto has generated great anticipation in MLB. The young Dominican outfielder, who has become one of the brightest stars in Major League Baseball, will be a free agent at the end of the 2024 season.

With the departures of Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander at the end of the season, the Mets have a sizable wage bill available to make a monumental offer to Soto. There is speculation that an 11-year, $600 million contract could be on the table.

Although the New York Yankees will do everything possible to retain him, the New York Mets are emerging as a strong contender for his services. The prospect of seeing Soto in a Mets uniform has generated great excitement among New York fans, particularly Mets’ star Francisco Lindor.

In a recent interview with ESPN’s Jeff Passan, Lindor expressed his desire to play alongside Soto: “Juan Soto is having a fantastic year. I hope he goes out and breaks all the records that exist in terms of salary. If it’s with us, it’ll be fantastic; he’ll help us a lot.”

New York shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) scores a run during the game between the New York Mets and Colorado Rockies game held at Coors Field.
IMAGO / ZUMA Press Wire

Yankees fight to retain their star

On their part, the New York Yankees are not willing to let Soto go without a fight. Owner Hal Steinbrenner has publicly stated his desire to keep the Dominican outfielder in the Bronx. However, the tempting offer the Mets could present, along with the possibility of forming a powerful duo with Lindor, makes this negotiation one of the most anticipated in MLB history.

Soto: A key player in the Yankees’ success

Since his arrival in New York, Soto has proven to be a fundamental piece in the Yankees’ lineup. With 37 home runs, 95 RBIs, and a .294 batting average, the Dominican has exceeded all expectations. His numbers place him among the league’s best hitters and make him a serious candidate for several individual awards at the end of the season.

If the Mets manage to secure Soto’s services, they would be forming one of the most powerful lineups in MLB. The combination of Soto and Lindor would be a nightmare for any opposing pitcher and would position the Mets as one of the top favorites to win the World Series for years to come.