Juan Soto, the newest member of the New York Yankees, held his introductory news conference via Zoom on Tuesday, donning a Yankees hat and fielding questions from the media. While he didn’t make a firm commitment to a contract extension, he didn’t dismiss the possibility either.
When asked about a contract extension, Soto replied, “They know where to call and who to talk to,” in reference to his agent, Scott Boras. He emphasized that his primary focus is on playing baseball and getting to know his new teammates and the organization.
Throughout the 30-minute session, Soto reiterated his enthusiasm for joining the Yankees and his determination to contribute to a championship-winning season. With his free agency approaching after the 2024 season, Soto acknowledged the inevitable questions about his future but expressed confidence in staying focused on the game rather than potential financial considerations.
“I’ve been doing it for six years,” Soto remarked. “I don’t think it’s going to be that hard. Scott Boras is my agent. I put everything on him and let him give his advice. My mindset is to come here to play baseball and try to win a championship.”
The Yankees’ decision to acquire Soto and center fielder Trent Grisham from the San Diego Padres was motivated by their desire to bolster their lineup after missing the playoffs in 2023 and ranking 25th in runs scored.
Soto, known for his exceptional hitting abilities, made his MLB debut at the age of 19 in 2018 and played a crucial role in the Washington Nationals’ World Series victory in 2019, where he boasted a .333 batting average with three home runs in the seven-game series against the Houston Astros.
Although comparisons have been made to legends like Ted Williams due to his remarkable on-base abilities, Soto has consistently delivered impressive performances since his rookie season in 2019. According to Baseball-Reference, he has created 208 more runs than the average hitter, leading the majors in this category since 2019. He has also led the league in walks for three consecutive seasons and maintained a .400-plus on-base percentage throughout his career.
The addition of Soto provides the Yankees with much-needed left-handed hitting power, addressing their struggles in this department. In the 2023 season, the team ranked 27th in OPS from left-handed hitters and 28th in home runs. Grisham, another left-handed hitter, was also acquired to strengthen the lineup, alongside Alex Verdugo, obtained from the Boston Red Sox in a separate trade.
Soto’s impressive batting stats, including a .275 batting average, .410 on-base percentage, .519 slugging percentage, 35 home runs, 109 RBIs, and 132 walks during the 2023 season, make him a valuable addition to the Yankees. His transition to Yankee Stadium, known for its short right-field wall, could further boost his performance. Soto has already hit four home runs in 28 career plate appearances at the stadium.
Despite the considerable assets the Yankees traded to acquire Soto, including Michael King, a projected starting pitcher, and three other young potential starters, there is growing pressure on general manager Brian Cashman and ownership to secure Soto’s long-term commitment. Soto’s age and production suggest that a contract extension could rival Mike Trout’s $426 million deal as one of the largest in the sport. It’s worth noting that Soto reportedly turned down a 15-year, $440 million offer from the Nationals in 2022, leading to his eventual trade to the Padres.