**Juan Soto Projected to Leave Yankees for $611 Million Mets Deal**
The New York Yankees face a tough battle in MLB free agency as they attempt to retain star outfielder Juan Soto. Meanwhile, the New York Mets have emerged as a leading contender to secure Soto’s services.
According to ESPN’s David Schoenfield, the Mets could make a historic move by signing Soto to a 13-year, $611 million contract. Schoenfield outlined this prediction in his November 27, 2024, article, *“MLB 2024-25 Free Agency: One Big Move for Every Team.”*
“The Mets have several gaps to address, with key players like Pete Alonso and three-fifths of their starting rotation — Sean Manaea, Jose Quintana, and Luis Severino — entering free agency,” Schoenfield wrote. “However, their payroll flexibility positions them to reload. Currently, their payroll sits at about $160 million, less than half of their 2024 total of $336 million.”
David Stearns, the Mets’ president of baseball operations, highlighted the team’s financial strength during his end-of-season press conference, calling their situation “financially flexible.” Schoenfield suggested this understated the Mets’ capacity, given owner Steve Cohen’s willingness to spend.
“With Cohen’s resources, money isn’t an obstacle,” Schoenfield noted. “If the Mets set their sights on Soto, it’s hard to imagine any team, including the Yankees, outbidding them.”
If the Mets succeed in signing Soto, it would not only bolster their roster but also deal a significant blow to their crosstown rivals. The massive contract would mark a milestone in MLB history, reflecting Soto’s immense value as one of the league’s brig
I’m
htest stars.
