MLB rumors: The ‘cold truth’ about Yankees’ Juan Soto contract negotiations

Juan Soto is pretty good at baseball. All right, that’s a pretty big understatement, but what can’t be understated is how much his performances this season have helped the New York Yankees superstar in potential contract talks.

The Yankees, who acquired Soto from the San Diego Padres in the offseason, have Soto under contract for just this season before he becomes an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career. By having him on the team, the Yankees are the only team that can speak with Soto about a new contract for the moment, which, in theory, gives them a much better chance of signing the Dominican slugger to a big deal before other teams can throw their proverbial hats in the ring and drive up the price in free agency.

The reality is, though, that Soto has little incentive to ink a new deal before the offseason. While he could eliminate the risk of a downturn in play or serious injury affecting his contract by signing an extension with the Yankees during the season, Soto, like many athletes, is probably going to bet on himself and wait until multiple teams can officially give him offers in the winter.

MLB insider Bob Nightengale of USA Today even said there is “absolutely zero chance” Soto signs a deal before the offseason.

“While Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner said he’s interested in engaging in contracts talks with right fielder Juan Soto and agent Scott Boras to avert free agency, with Soto saying he’s willing to listen, the cold truth is there is absolutely zero chance Soto will sign before he’s a free agent,” Nightengale wrote. “He turned down a 15-year, $440 million contract offer from the Washington Nationals two years ago. So, what’s another six months? Soto can keep on hitting, sit back, and watch the bidding war emerge between the Yankees and Mets.