When it comes to landing Juan Soto, the New York Mets might not be the straightout favorites, but they are in a sound position to make their case. A big part of the strength of the team lies because of their owner, Steve Cohen. He is known to be willing to spend big and has turned heads with the Mets having the highest luxury tax payroll in three of his four seasons. If money is the language of baseball negotiations, he sure speaks it loud and clear. Plus, didn’t we hear rumors that he is ready to pay $50 million more than any team pays Juan Soto? It shows that he is ready no matter what.
But then this is where things get interesting—MLB insider Andy Martino has recently shared on Baseball Night in New York that the New York Mets appeal is not just about the money! Soto’s deal is expected to be undoubtedly historic, given it’s going up to $600 or more. However, Martino highlighted certain factors that are beyond the paycheck, which makes the Mets an exciting option for the 26-year-old. “It’s too early to say who’s the favorite to sign Soto, but there are some real advantages the Mets have that go beyond just money,” said Martino, and he has legit reasoning to think so!
The Mets’ continuity could be a game-changer for the Juan Soto sweepstakes!
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Andy Martino sees something unique in the New York Mets pitch and its stability. For a player who is up to sign more than a decade-long deal, knowing the team’s leadership is to remain as it is a major plus. “The Mets’ leadership cycle, specifically, I mean Steve Cohen, David Stearns, and Carlos Mendoza are at the beginning of that cycle,” mentioned Martino. And well, given these three people are all fresh in their roles and starting off in the franchise, things are more stable.
“It’s too early to say who’s the favorite to sign Soto, but there are some real advantages the Mets have that go beyond just money”
On Baseball Night in New York, @martinonyc gives his current read of the Juan Soto situation https://t.co/kICkc9IGLJ
▶ Tri-State @Cadillac pic.twitter.com/E66lnDH8Vk
— SNY (@SNYtv) November 26, 2024
Andy Martino further said, “Continuity of what they are presenting to Soto” is a key factor. This means what they are offering Soto now is likely to remain consistent for years to come, which not every team can guarantee. Scott Boras, the agent of Juan Soto, has made it clear that the Dominican superstar values a winning team and strong relations with the owner. As such, the Mets, with their financial muscle and leadership stability, could have an edge.
Juan Soto’s future in pinstripes is doubtful
Andy Martino had picked the New York Yankees as the frontrunner to resign Juan Soto. But he is rethinking his stance. On Baseball Night in New York, Martino expressed concerns over the Yankees’s leadership and future. “GM Brian Cashman is possibly going to be looking to move on or transition to another leadership team. I’d name Kevin Reese, who currently works in the organization as a potential successor to Cashman over the next two to three years.” Now, along with this, Aaron Boone’s contract is only extending till next year. So Martino is saying Soto might see the Mets as a more stable place.
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According to Martino, the New York Met’s continuity could sway Soto’s decisions. This is because, with the Yankees, Martino feels certain questions will play in Soto’s mind. “‘Who’s going to be running this team that I signed up for?’ ‘Is it going to be like it is today?’ ‘Are the presentations that I’m hearing from these groups going to be what it’s like in four years, six years, seven years, or eight years?’ ” questioned Martino. And he makes a lot of sense!
Plus, add in the fact that neither Judge nor Hal Steinbrenner has been giving great answers to the media regarding their pursuit of Soto, which does paint a rather grim picture. For Soto, the Mets are looking at a more stable place, and that itself could tip the scales toward them. Do you think so too? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
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Can the Mets' stability and Cohen's deep pockets outshine the Yankees in the Juan Soto race?
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Can the Mets' stability and Cohen's deep pockets outshine the Yankees in the Juan Soto race?
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