Jack Curry, analyst for the YES Network, shared his intuition during The Michael Kay Show, stating he has always felt Juan Soto would be a Yankee in 2025. Curry emphasized that if the Yankees present a competitive offer, which they reportedly have so far, Soto may lean towards staying in the Bronx.

The 26-year-old superstar outfielder is widely regarded as the most coveted free agent of the 2024-25 offseason. Soto’s impressive resume includes a 2024 season where he posted a 178 OPS+, hit 41 home runs, and logged more walks than strikeouts in 157 games for the Yankees. Such consistent excellence, coupled with his youth, has solidified his status as a generational talent and ensured he will command a record-breaking contract.

Reports indicate Soto already has multiple offers exceeding $600 million, with some insiders suggesting the final number could eclipse Shohei Ohtani’s $700 million deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers. With his agent Scott Boras at the helm, Soto’s free agency has become one of the most closely followed stories in MLB.

Yankees and Mets Emerge as Co-Favorites

Soto has reportedly held face-to-face meetings with five primary suitors: the Yankees, Mets, Dodgers, Red Sox, and Blue Jays. While all remain in contention, Curry noted that the Dodgers are “on the outskirts,” leaving the Yankees, Mets, and potentially the Red Sox as the leading candidates.

As the Winter Meetings approach, Soto’s decision is expected soon. Curry speculated a resolution could come before the meetings begin next week, allowing the signing team to host a high-profile press conference in Dallas.

Record-breaking expectations

Speculation around Soto’s contract continues to grow. Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic floated the possibility of a $750 million deal, while MassLive reported that all remaining teams have tabled offers of at least $600 million. With competition intensifying, industry sources suggest the winning bid could exceed $700 million and potentially approach $800 million.

If Soto signs a 14- or 15-year contract at an average annual value exceeding $43 million, it would surpass Ohtani’s luxury tax threshold while potentially falling shy of his total guaranteed money.

According to The Boston Globe, the Red Sox recently increased their offer to $600 million and requested another meeting with Soto’s camp. While it’s unclear if this will lead to a breakthrough, Boston remains a serious contender. The Blue Jays, meanwhile, have stayed relatively quiet but remain in the hunt.

The baseball world is watching closely as Soto’s free agency saga unfolds. Whether he stays in New York or ventures elsewhere, his decision will shape the future of whichever team lands the superstar. Stay tuned for more updates as this historic negotiation reaches its conclusion.