The postseason is heating up with several off-field incidents. As the October campaign is progressing toward its end, fans are busy speculating about the upcoming free agency. From Los Angeles Angels Shohei Ohtani to San Diego Padres’ Juan Soto, all are under a deep cloud of speculation. While the New York-based teams have been emerging as the potent contenders as Soto’s suitable landing spot, another rival has made its presence known.
Started with the Washington Nationals, Soto made his way to the Padres after last year’s trade deadline ended. With the 24-year-old star on the team, the 2022 season was great for the Padres as they reached the NLCS. However, this year the team’s performance dropped, and their season ended without qualifying for the playoffs. Despite all these, Soto played his part well and became one of the most desired players for many teams. While he has already been connected to New York-based teams, the Boston Red Sox again come to the top of the speculation.
Boston Red Sox are beating the New York Yankees off-field
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Since Juan Soto’s trade rumor landed, fans and insiders have been trying to find him a suitable team to start his 2024 season. Meanwhile, the Red Sox have always been in the top 5 teams to chase the Dominican star. Speculations increased thanks to a video of the Padres’ star outfielder, causing trouble for the New York Yankees. A fan shared a video of Soto, captioned, “Juan Soto dancing with Red Sox legends Pedro Martinez and Jason Varitek.”
Juan Soto dancing with Red Sox legends Pedro Martinez and Jason Varitek.
? Baseball?s Greatest Moments (@BBGreatMoments) October 18, 2023
Meanwhile, Soto has also had a previous connection with another Red Sox legend, David Ortiz. Soto’s inclusion in the Red Sox will be beneficial for the team. The 24-year-old hitter has achieved multiple achievements, including a World Series championship. So, having him in the lineup will give the Boston team a chance to improve their team strength. Though the team suffered mostly in the pitching this season, they are reportedly thinking of adding new talents to the offensive side as well. According to sources, they don’t only focus on the free agents, but are curious about the trade market as well.
MLB analyst Jim Bowden even considered them as one of the five teams to land Soto. According to him, it could be his second probable destination. This could eventually make things more challenging for the Yankees. However, a few days ago, another insider stated his side, saying Soto won’t leave the Padres.
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Juan Soto will stay with the Padres, says one insider
Amidst all the trade rumors, renowned MLB insider Hector Gomez took a different stand. He revealed Soto’s contract extension discussion with his present team. Gomez said that the player is, reportedly, happy with his team, and if they agree to his demands, he won’t leave them. Having Soto is beneficial for the team, for sure. He not only gives them a strong lineup but massive audience support. Also, the Padres can fulfill Soto’s demand. So, it might just be that the player doesn’t end up with Boston or New York after all.
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Whether Juan Soto appears for the trade market or not depends on time. But, there are only a few weeks left to know what will be his next destination. Where do you think Soto will end up?
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