Carlos Beltran Confirms Mets’ Interest in Free Agent Juan Soto
FILE PHOTO: Jul 14, 2024; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; New York Yankees outfielder Juan Soto (22) prepares to bat during the first inning against the Baltimore Orioles at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. Mandatory Credit: James A. Pittman-USA TODAY Sports/File Photo
Carlos Beltran, the assistant to president of baseball operations David Stearns, has confirmed what many already know: the New York Mets are all-in on acquiring free agent Juan Soto.
The Mets’ Pursuit of Soto
According to Beltran, the Mets want to improve their team and are willing to go after top free agents, including Soto. “The Mets will go full blast for him,” Beltran told Joseph Reboyras of Puerto Rican outlet Primera Hora.
Meetings in Los Angeles
Mets owner Steve Cohen, Stearns, and Francisco Lindor are currently in Los Angeles to meet with Soto, who is projected to sign one of the richest contracts in MLB history. Soto belted 41 home runs in his debut season with the Yankees after being acquired from the San Diego Padres last winter.
The Mets’ Advantages
Cohen’s deep pockets as the wealthiest owner in Major League Baseball make the Mets a front-runner for Soto. The team also has roughly $100 million coming off their books this winter, giving them the financial flexibility to make a competitive offer. Additionally, the Mets’ desire to win is personal for Cohen, and the team is on the cusp of achieving consistent postseason contention.
Competition from Other Teams
The Mets will face competition from other big-market clubs, including the Toronto Blue Jays and the Los Angeles Dodgers. Soto already has meetings lined up with these teams and is expected to receive multiple offers.
Conclusion
The Mets’ pursuit of Juan Soto is a significant step in their efforts to build a consistent winner. With their financial resources and commitment to winning, they appear to be a strong contender for the 26-year-old superstar right fielder. However, Soto will likely receive multiple offers, and the bidding war could see his contract exceed $700 million.
FAQs
Q: What is the status of the Mets’ meetings with Juan Soto?
A: The Mets, led by owner Steve Cohen, president of baseball operations David Stearns, and Francisco Lindor, are currently meeting with Soto in Los Angeles.
Q: How much is Juan Soto expected to make in his next contract?
A: Soto is projected to make at least $600 million in his next deal, but a bidding war could see it eclipse $700 million.
Q: Which teams are also competing for Juan Soto’s services?
A: The Toronto Blue Jays, Los Angeles Dodgers, and other big-market clubs are also in the running for Soto’s services.
Q: Why are the Mets a strong contender for Juan Soto?
A: The Mets’ financial resources and commitment to winning make them a strong contender for Soto. Additionally, owner Steve Cohen’s personal desire to win and the team’s recent success give them an edge in the pursuit of the 26-year-old superstar.
