New York Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner offered a candid update on the team’s efforts to re-sign superstar outfielder Juan Soto, the top free agent in this offseason’s market. While the Yankees remain interested, Steinbrenner admitted there’s uncertainty about whether they can bring Soto back to the Bronx.
“No idea,” Steinbrenner said when asked about his confidence in re-signing Soto. “We’ll be in the mix. I’ll leave it at that.”
Despite his cautious response, Steinbrenner emphasized that retaining Soto is a priority for the organization. He praised the impact Soto made during his time with the Yankees and acknowledged the expectations from the team’s passionate fanbase.
“Our fans really enjoyed having him in New York,” Steinbrenner noted. “He’s a significant part of why we reached the World Series. I’ve got ears. I know what’s expected of me. It’s been a priority. We wouldn’t have flown out to the West Coast for meetings if it wasn’t.”
Soto was a force for the Yankees in 2024, slashing .288/.404/.590 with 41 home runs and 109 RBIs. His offensive production and presence in the lineup were instrumental in the Yankees’ deep playoff run.
Yankees Positioned to Spend Big This Offseason
Known for their aggressive spending, the Yankees are expected to be major players this offseason. Steinbrenner acknowledged that the team is in a stronger financial position compared to last year and has the flexibility to pursue top-tier talent.
“We’re in a better starting position than we were a year ago,” Steinbrenner said. “Payrolls like this year’s, along with the luxury taxes they produce, aren’t sustainable long-term. But that doesn’t mean we can’t do what we want to do in a given year. We have the ability to sign any player we want.”
With over $234 million already committed for 2025, per Spotrac, the Yankees have room to maneuver but face stiff competition for Soto.
Manager Aaron Boone on Soto
Manager Aaron Boone, whose contract was extended for 2025, expressed his desire to see Soto return.
“What Juan did for us was special, both on and off the field,” Boone said. “I’d love to have him back. He’s a remarkable player and an even better person. But there are a lot of teams competing for him, so we’ll see what happens.”
Soto’s future remains uncertain, but the Yankees are committed to being part of the conversation as the offseason unfolds.
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