San Diego Padres’ three-time All-Star Juan Soto is on the trade block this winter, according to ESPN’s Buster Olney. Soto, set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2025, is projected to earn $33 million through arbitration in 2024. Despite discussions about a contract extension, the Padres and Soto haven’t reached an agreement.
“Absolutely, 100% he’s going to be traded before the season” – @Buster_ESPN on Juan Soto
— The Michael Kay Show (@TMKSESPN) November 10, 2023
ICYMI: Will Soto be traded before the season starts? @Buster_ESPN thinks so pic.twitter.com/B9uOpFIU6q
— The Michael Kay Show (@TMKSESPN) November 10, 2023
With the Padres aiming to reduce their payroll, currently estimated at $255 million, Soto’s potential trade has become a topic of interest. Olney emphasized the financial constraints, suggesting that shedding Soto’s $33 million salary might be necessary for the team. The Padres took out a $50 million loan to cover costs, and the challenge lies in managing the significant contracts of players like Manny Machado, Xander Bogaerts, Joe Musgrove, and Yu Darvish.
While Soto could be a key trade piece, Olney identified the New York Yankees as a potential landing spot. Despite Padres GM A.J. Preller expressing a preference for a contract extension, the team has signaled its openness to trade offers for Soto this winter. The situation remains fluid, with discussions about Soto’s future likely to evolve in the coming months.