New York Yankees star Juan Sotoās quest for his next team in free agency is getting increasingly interesting. While many expect a battle between the Yankees and the New York Mets, a recent report suggests the San Francisco Giants could be an unexpected contender over Shohei Ohtaniās Los Angeles Dodgers.
Mark Feinsand, a renowned journalist from MLB.com, has analyzed the possible fate of Soto. While he considers the Yankees and Mets as the top candidates, he also mentions the Nationals as a viable option, as they have a young, promising group to build around and a sizable salary margin following the departure of some players.
However, Feinsand believes the Dodgers, following the acquisitions of Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto last year, wonāt be interested in Soto. Instead, he sees the Giants as a team with the ambition to make a leap in quality, and they could become a surprise contender in the bidding for the Dominican.
āThe Yankees and Mets are obvious. I think this will be a two-team race, but thereās already been some Nationals buzz, which makes sense. Washington has a solid young core to build around and has a lot of money coming off the books. I donāt think the Dodgers will be in on Soto after signing Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto last year, but the Giants are still looking to reel in that big fish they have been seeking for two years, so I expect them to enter this fray,ā said Mark Feinsand, MLB.com.
Juan Soto #22 of the New York Yankees reacts after striking out to end the third inning against the St. Louis Cardinals at Yankee Stadium on August 31, 2024 in New York City. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images)
Giants: An unexpected threat
Sotoās arrival in San Francisco would be bad news for Los Angeles, as they would have to face him in the NL West, potentially for an extended period. If the Dodgers donāt get involved in the race for Soto, the ideal scenario for them would be for him to remain in New York, preferably with the Yankees.
Underestimating the Giants in the race for Soto would be a mistake. Their need to strengthen is imperative, and desperate teams often make bold decisions. Therefore, it is not ruled out that San Francisco will make a significant offer to attract the Dominican.
Dodgers: Completely ruled out of the race?
While Feinsand doesnāt think Los Angeles Dodgers will be a major player in the bid for Soto, they shouldnāt be ruled out entirely. Their management has demonstrated an ability and willingness to spend never before seen in the history of the franchise, and even the sport. With Ohtani on the roster, the urgency to win a championship has risen sharply. The Dodgers usually talk to players of Sotoās stature, at least.
