Philadelphia Phillies fans are already envisioning Juan Soto wearing the team’s red pinstripes at Citizens Bank Park next season.
At 25, Soto is expected to be the top free agent target this offseason, with many analysts predicting he could secure a contract exceeding $500 million. With Scott Boras as his agent and the stellar season Soto is having, it’s highly likely he’ll land a huge deal. But will the Phillies be the ones to bring out the Brinks truck for him?
Wheeler for Cy? Soto? Old time newsman makes a guest appearance. And on national cheeseburger day we discuss some faves. https://t.co/FbcL8dEjfW
— Jim Salisbury (@JimSalisbury215) September 18, 2024
USA Today’s Bob Nightengale reported on Sunday that the Phillies are among five teams expected to enter the bidding war for superstar Juan Soto. This interest isn’t surprising, as the Phillies are looking to upgrade their outfield this offseason. However, insiders are urging caution on the latest episode of “The Phillies Show” podcast, featuring Todd Zolecki, Jim Salisbury, and Ruben Amaro, where they downplayed the likelihood of Soto joining the team.
“I think you explore the market to stay informed, maybe drive up the price for your competitors, and understand what’s happening,” said Salisbury, a contributor for PHLY Sports. “But that deal will probably exceed $500 million, and with two $300 million players already on the books—one for seven more years, the other for nine—the Phillies’ payroll, approaching that second or third luxury tax threshold, makes it hard to see Soto as a fit.” He added that, despite this, Soto will likely be linked to the Phillies throughout the offseason.
According to Sportrac, the Phillies’ payroll for 2025 is already at $222.8 million, leading the league. They have seven players earning over $20 million next season, including ace Zack Wheeler at $42 million, leaving them with only $4.67 million in tax space.
Salisbury joked, “I’d eat my shoe if Soto showed up in Clearwater [spring training] in February.”
Amaro, a former Phillies general manager and current NBC Sports Philadelphia analyst, mentioned that while he wouldn’t count out Dave Dombrowski or owner John Middleton making a push for Soto, he doesn’t expect it to happen. “It would be wise to at least consider it, given Soto’s age, especially as the current stars get older. But I don’t see it materializing,” Amaro said. He added that if the Yankees don’t bring Soto back, general manager Brian Cashman should be fired.
Soto having MVP-type year in walk season
Soto is putting together a stellar debut season with the Yankees following his trade from the San Diego Padres. In 147 games, he’s hit 40 home runs, driven in 103 runs, scored 120 times, and posted an impressive 7.6 WAR (wins above replacement).
Looking ahead to 2025, the Phillies’ current outfield includes Nick Castellanos, Brandon Marsh, Johan Rojas, and midseason trade acquisition Austin Hays. With Marsh increasingly viewed as a platoon player and Rojas struggling offensively, it’s likely the Phillies will aim to bolster their outfield.
Soto has historically performed well at Citizens Bank Park, hitting .327 over 38 games, with 13 home runs, 39 RBI, and 30 runs scored.
