Michael King, one of the players the New York Yankees gave up in their blockbuster trade for Juan Soto, claims the organization gave up too much in their deal for the All-Star outfielder.
The Yankees made the first major move of the offseason when they traded for the player they have coveted for a couple of years, Juan Soto. The 25-year-old star will address several needs they had after last season and help give them a lineup that could carry them to the World Series in 2024.
However, in getting the talented outfielder, New York gave up several high-potential pitching prospects. Since Randy Vasquez, Jhony Brito, and Drew Thorpe were not viewed as some of the top young arms in the sport, some viewed the deal as a huge win for the Yankees. However, they were three of the very best in their system, and Michael King — another player shipped off in the deal — believes the Yankees made a major mistake in giving up so much pitching potential in the trade.
“I continue to praise [Padres general manager] AJ Preller and am confident in saying I feel like the Padres won the trade,” King told the New York Post. “I feel like the talent we’ve gotten, I was shocked to see the Yankees part with that many people. Obviously, it’s Juan Soto, so you have to give up a big package, but I was pumped to see who was coming with me to San Diego. I know they’re gonna contribute this year and for years to come.”
Michael Kings says New York Yankees traded away ‘stud’ pitchers with ‘incredible ‘ stuff
Not only did the Yankees trade away three of their best pitching prospects but also some of the depth they had in the organization. Vasquez and Brito both pitched for the team last season and King believes they already showed their potential, as well as the massive upside they will bring as key parts of the Padres pitching staff in 2024.
“I don’t know Thorpe too well, but I’ve watched video and you look at his stats and you know he’s gonna be a stud,” King said. “And the ceilings of Brito and Vasquez are through the roof. I’ve seen them develop this past year and their stuff is incredible.”
There is certainly a huge risk in the deal for the New York Yankees. Not only did they have to give him a record-setting $31.5 million in arbitration, but he is set to hit free agency after the season. There is no guarantee he will return to the Bronx in 2025 and beyond as he seeks out a massive long-term deal in the winter.