Aaron Judge vs. Juan Soto: The Future of Two Baseball Superstars

Aaron Judge and Juan Soto: A Tale of Two Superstars

Aaron Judge and Juan Soto: A Tale of Two Superstars

Aaron Judge made a significant financial sacrifice to secure a long-term contract with the New York Yankees. However, the Yankees may not enjoy the same fortune with Juan Soto, even if they manage to win the World Series. Soto, a fierce competitor, will undoubtedly seek a team where he can consistently contend for championships.

Having experienced a World Series victory at just 20 years old with the Washington Nationals in 2019, Soto still regards that team as family. Even after being traded, he kept a reminder of that championship close, using the trophy as his cell phone background.

During his tenure in San Diego, Soto faced challenges but was recognized by many within the organization as a rare talent who prioritized team success over personal statistics. His frustrations over losses were palpable, regardless of whether he had a hitless game or a perfect one. This dedication drove him back to the batting cage, a habit he developed during his time in Washington. In one memorable instance, Soto spent a late October night with former hitting coach Kevin Long, working tirelessly to overcome a slump, ultimately emerging as a postseason hero for the Nationals.

Soto not only thrives in high-pressure moments but also draws energy from them. This was evident during a pivotal game where he hit a crucial 10th-inning home run, propelling the Yankees past the Cleveland Guardians and securing New York’s first World Series appearance since 2009.

While it would be naive to assume that winning a championship wouldn’t influence Soto, who is set to enter free agency this winter with expectations of a monumental contract, it’s clear that legacy and records are equally important to him. Sources have indicated that Soto’s camp is eyeing a deal that could surpass Shohei Ohtani’s record-breaking contract, which featured 97% deferrals but still averaged approximately $43.78 million annually.

Currently earning $31 million in his final arbitration year, Soto stands poised to exceed both Ohtani’s numbers and potentially set a new benchmark in baseball contracts. Although Ohtani’s overall figure of $700 million seems ambitious, Soto’s willingness to consider heavy deferrals, reminiscent of his former teammate Max Scherzer’s record-deferral contract, may play a role in negotiations.

As Soto approaches his 26th birthday, he is perceived to be aiming for offers around $500 million. After an impressive regular season in which he posted an 8.1 fWAR, trailing only Judge, Ohtani, and Bobby Witt Jr., it would not be surprising if Soto’s youth and playoff performance push his market value closer to $600 million.

Super-agent Scott Boras is expected to advocate fiercely for Soto, who has drawn comparisons to legends like Ted Williams. However, the notion that a Yankees World Series victory would significantly enhance their chances of retaining Soto seems overly optimistic.

Soto has previously turned down a $440 million offer from the Nationals before his trade in 2022, indicating his desire to advance the market and set new standards for future players. This mindset suggests a reluctance to leave substantial sums on the table, unlike Judge, who opted to turn down a lucrative offer from the San Diego Padres.

In choosing his next team, Soto is unlikely to commit to a franchise with a bleak future. While teams like the Miami Marlins or Chicago White Sox might not be able to afford him, the New York Mets—another potential suitor—could present a formidable challenge. The Mets recently made a strong playoff run, falling just two wins shy of facing the Yankees in the World Series.

Soto, who has family ties in New York and enjoys easy access for visits from his parents in the Dominican Republic, may find it hard to resist the allure of playing in a two-team race for his services between the Yankees and Mets. With both teams offering substantial financial packages, the difference made by a few additional playoff victories may be negligible.

Steve Cohen, the wealthiest owner in baseball, is known for his willingness to exceed luxury tax thresholds to build a competitive team. If Cohen decides he wants Soto, persuading him and Boras that the Mets have a bright future should not be difficult. Under the leadership of president David Stearns, the organization is poised for significant internal changes, having already revamped over 20 positions in preparation for the upcoming season.

Both franchises feature stars already locked in for the long term; Soto would not immediately become the face of either team, as Francisco Lindor and Judge are both signed through 2032. However, if Soto desires the spotlight, Judge’s national prominence and Lindor’s relative anonymity could influence his decision.

The Yankees have placed a hefty bet on acquiring Soto for a single season, and they are just four wins away from reaping the rewards of that gamble. However, if they wish to retain his services beyond 2024, they will need to present an offer of record proportions. Anything less would likely fall short of his expectations.

(Top photo: Daniel Shirey / MLB Photos via Getty Images)

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