Juan Soto’s free agency is just beginning to heat up, and the buzz coming out of the General Managers Meetings suggests that a dramatic bidding war between the New York Yankees and the New York Mets is on the horizon. While other teams such as the Philadelphia Phillies, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants, and even the Washington Nationals could make a run at the superstar slugger, industry insiders believe Soto is destined to end up in one of the Big Apple’s two major markets.

The Yankees vs. Mets: A Battle for Soto

One American League executive summed up the situation succinctly: “It’s the Yankees or the Mets.” After spending part of the 2024 season with the Yankees, helping them reach the World Series, Soto has grown familiar with the organization and its competitive culture. On the other hand, Steve Cohen, owner of the Mets, has deep pockets and could potentially offer Soto a deal he simply can’t refuse. However, the prevailing sentiment in the industry is that Soto will end up in New York—whether with the Yankees or Mets—when the dust settles.

East Coast Preference Could Favor New York

Juan Soto’s preference for staying on the East Coast may give teams like the Dodgers or other West Coast suitors a significant disadvantage. Sources indicate that the Philadelphia Phillies might still make a push for the four-time All-Star, leveraging the presence of former Nationals teammates Bryce Harper, Trea Turner, and Kyle Schwarber, along with the influence of hitting coach Kevin Long. However, Soto’s positive experience in New York, where he made an impact with the Yankees, could give the city an edge in his decision-making process.

Does Soto Stay with the Yankees?

The big question remains: will Juan Soto choose to continue playing for the Yankees, where he hit in front of superstar Aaron Judge? According to some executives, the Yankees have the inside track—especially if the Mets don’t significantly outbid them. “Unless the Mets absolutely blow the Yankees’ offer out of the water, why would he leave New York?” said one AL executive. The Yankees already have a relationship with Soto, and GM Brian Cashman has made it clear that the team is ready to stay engaged in negotiations, meeting with Soto as often as needed.

Cashman Addresses Mets Competition

Brian Cashman recently spoke with Scott Boras, Soto’s agent, and assured him that the Yankees are prepared to match or surpass any offers. “He knows how we feel,” Cashman said, referencing his previous discussions with Soto. While Cashman downplayed any direct concern about the Mets’ financial strength, he acknowledged that both New York teams are vying for the same goal: winning a World Series. “They want to win, just like we do,” Cashman added.

However, Cashman also recognized that big-market teams aren’t the only ones flexing their financial muscle. San Diego Padres have demonstrated that large contracts can come from any part of the country, not just from traditional baseball powerhouses like New York.

The Bottom Line: New York Likely for Soto

As Juan Soto’s free agency unfolds, the consensus is clear: the Yankees and Mets are the two primary contenders for his services. While teams like the Phillies may still try to make a play for Soto, the East Coast preference and his experience in New York strongly indicate that his future lies in one of the New York teams. The battle between the Yankees and Mets promises to be one of the most exciting storylines of the offseason as both teams compete to secure one of baseball’s brightest stars.