As they look to improve their roster after missing the playoffs in 2023, the New York Yankees have already had early talks on what could be one of the biggest trades possible this offseason.
The New York Yankees maintained their nearly three-decade-long streak of finishing a season with a record over .500 team, but their 2023 campaign was a major disappointment. Despite having the reigning American League MVP, and getting a Cy Young-caliber season from Gerrit Cole, injuries and surprisingly poor performances from several key players had a huge effect on the outcome of the pinstripes season.
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For most organizations, there are still positives to take away from an 82-80 record. However, that will never be the case when it comes to the Yankees and their fan base knows change is likely coming to the roster. But the question is how big and bold will New York be this winter?
The Bronx Bombers have been linked to a pursuit of Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani, however, it seems like their in-city rivals the Mets are more likely to outspend them for the MVP candidate if he is willing to play on the East Coast. That might be why some analysts have suggested a trade for Padres star Juan Soto.
- Juan Soto stats (2023): .275 AVG, .410 OBP, .519 SLG, 35 HR, 109 RBI, 97 R
Well, it looks like early discussions have already begun.
New York Yankees have had early talks about a Juan Soto trade
The Padres also had an unexpectedly poor season in 2023, and with Juan Soto likely to test free agency after the upcoming season, there have been rumblings he could be on the trade block. The Yankees heavily scouted him when he was up for grabs two summers ago and it seems they are back in the race for the star outfielder, according to SNY MLB insider Andy Martino.
“The Yankees have already had one preliminary conversation with the San Diego Padres this offseason about superstar outfielder Juan Soto, league sources say,” Martino wrote on Wednesday.
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New York needs more hitting, especially from the left side. Something the three-time All-Star would fit perfectly. Furthermore, if the Yankees were able to acquire Soto, they would have arguably the best-hitting outfield in the sport with 2022 AL MVP Aaron Judge and super prospect Jasson Dominguez — once he returns from Tommy John surgery.