New San Diego manager Mike Shildt is wasting no time in getting to know his players. One of his top priorities is meeting with superstar outfielder Juan Soto, whom the Padres acquired from the Washington Nationals in a trade last August. Shildt has already been in contact with Soto and plans to meet him in Miami on the 17th of this month.
Potential Financial Constraints
Despite Soto’s undeniable talent and impact on the field, the Padres might face financial limitations that could prompt them to consider trading him. Soto is eligible for arbitration this winter and is projected to earn around $33 million next year. With his agent Scott Boras at the helm, it’s no secret that Soto will demand a high price. The Padres, who already paid him $23 million last season, may struggle to afford him in the long term, especially considering his impending free agency after the 2024 World Series.
Yankees in the Mix?
Unsurprisingly, Soto’s talent has caught the attention of other teams, including the New York Yankees. General Manager Brian Cashman spoke highly of the outfielder, calling him a “transformational bat” and praising his skills as one of the best hitters in the game. However, Cashman noted that Soto is currently an impact player for another team, hinting at the possibility of the Padres exploring trade options.
Soto’s achievements at such a young age cannot be understated. At only 21 years old, he was a key contributor to the Nationals’ championship win in 2019. He followed that up by winning the National League batting title in 2020 and leading the league in on-base percentage in both 2020 and 2021. Soto’s stellar performance earned him Silver Slugger awards in both those years and a second-place finish in NL MVP voting in 2021. His consistency and ability to perform under pressure make him a highly coveted player.
While the Padres would undoubtedly love to keep Soto, the financial reality might force their hand. With the team finishing 18 games behind the division-leading Los Angeles Dodgers last season, they have other areas that require attention and investment. Trading Soto could potentially bring in valuable assets that can help bolster the team’s overall performance.
Juan Soto’s future with the San Diego Padres hangs in the balance. Manager Mike Shildt’s upcoming meeting with the young outfielder will likely shed light on the organization’s plans. As fans eagerly await news of Soto’s fate, it is clear that his talent and impact have not gone unnoticed. Whether he remains a Padre or finds a new home, Soto is destined to continue his rise as one of the game’s brightest stars.
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