The Juan Soto Sweepstakes are open to all 30 MLB Teams: Does Philly have a shot?

Shortly after the New York Yankees’ Game 5 elimination from the World Series at the hands of the Los Angeles Dodgers, Juan Soto made it clear that he’s leaving the door open for all 30 MLB teams to enter free agency sweepstakes this winter.

The Yankees, Phillies, and even the Mets are the early heavyweights in the Juan Soto Sweepstakes, each team willing to open their wallets wide.

However, Soto’s language about his time with the Yankees was interestingly distant, raising speculation about his attachment to staying in New York.

In Philly, though, the fit is undeniable. Juan Soto’s agent, Scott Boras, has already helped send stars to the Phillies, including Bryce Harper, and Philadelphia’s appetite for big-name talent is as strong as ever under owner John Middleton.

Juan Soto is chasing a bag, and I don’t blame him

Juan Soto on if the Yankees have an advantage in his free agency"

"I feel like every team has the same opportunities when I go into free agency. I don't want to say anyone has an advantage because at the end of the day we're gonna look at what they have & how much they want me" pic.twitter.com/ulGDORoJ7G

— Yankees Videos (@snyyankees) October 31, 2024

“I feel like every team has the same opportunities when I go into free agency. I don’t want to say anyone has an advantage because at the end of the day we’re gonna look at what they have & how much they want me” [Video]

Soto’s Career So Far: A Track Record Worth the Price Tag

Since debuting as a 19-year-old in 2018, Soto has amassed accolades that few players reach in their entire careers. Four-time All-Star, Home Run Derby champ, Silver Slugger awards, a batting title, and a World Series ring—he’s done it all, and he’s only missing a Rookie of the Year award, which went to Ronald Acuña Jr.

Juan Soto’s career WAR sits at 36.4 with a .285 average, 201 homers, 934 hits, 592 RBIs, a .421 OBP, and a .953 OPS.

Soto’s production screams consistency and excellence, and with career stats that look like season highlights for many players, he’s fully earned the mega-deal he’s about to receive.

While he may not command Shohei Ohtani money, he’s still expected to walk away with one of the richest contracts in the league.

The Competition: The Usual Suspects

With the Yankees, Mets, Phillies, and a handful of other teams in the running, Soto’s destination is likely to hinge on dollar signs and relationships.

Though Soto noted that “all 30 teams have a chance” to sign him, realistically, only a few will truly compete for his services.

The Yankees seemed like a fit, especially given Soto’s stint in the Bronx, but his use of past-tense in describing his experience there could hint at a desire to explore other options.

If anyone can give the Yankees a run, it’s the Phillies. Middleton has shown he’s willing to spend whatever it takes to build a winner, and with Harper advocating for his former Nationals teammate, the case for Soto in Philly is compelling.

And then there’s the Mets, who under Steve Cohen have shown no hesitation to swing big for top talent.

Juan Soto on if it'd be tough to leave the Yankees:

"Leaving any place that is a winning team is always hard. This place was really special. It's been a blast for me. I've been really happy. This was a really special group" pic.twitter.com/WU3ogS8xMf

— Yankees Videos (@snyyankees) October 31, 2024

"This is gonna stay in my heart for the rest of my life. This group of guys, this year was really special for me. I'm really proud of myself for what I accomplished. Thanks to Judge, he was a big part of it. Really proud of myself and this group of guys"

– Juan Soto pic.twitter.com/2p7SHC13u9

— Yankees Videos (@snyyankees) October 31, 2024

Phillies: The Perfect Fit?

The Phillies have positioned themselves well to go after Soto, with Bob Nightengale recently reporting that the team is expected to “strongly pursue” him this offseason.

Read: Bob Nightengale yet again lists the Phillies as the team to watch in the Juan Soto Free Agency Sweepstakes

They’ve made similar moves before, outbidding teams like the Dodgers for talent, and they’ve already got the infrastructure to support a monster contract.

Even if Juan Soto commands an eye-popping $500 million, Middleton’s commitment to winning means the Phillies are right in the mix.

I would not count out the Phils NL East rival. The New York Mets could be a potential landing spot for the 26-year old superstar.

Between all three teams, they have shown a willingness to spend money and not worry about payroll. It is going to come down to the dollar signs. Relationships could also play a role if no contract offer really outbids the rest.

According to Soto, no door is closed

Juan Soto was asked if he expects the Mets to go after him in free agency:

"I don't know what's the teams that are going to come after me. Definitely, I'll be open to this and every single team. I don't have any doors closed. I"m gonna be available for all 30 teams pic.twitter.com/3VICeWeney

— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) October 31, 2024

Who ever wins the sweepstakes is going to get a hungry Soto

Juan Soto was the last player sitting on the #Yankees bench in their dugout, watching with his helmet on and a bat in his hands as the Dodgers celebrated their World Series win on the field. pic.twitter.com/1iPiytoESc

— Max Goodman (@MaxTGoodman) October 31, 2024

The Next Phase for Juan Soto

Wherever Soto ends up, he’s poised to bring a new level of hunger and ambition. With one World Series under his belt, Soto seems primed to go after another and build an even bigger legacy.

And if the Phillies win the bidding war, pairing him with Harper and their powerful lineup could make Philadelphia a force to be reckoned with in the National League for years to come.

It’s not over until the ink’s dry, but Phillies fans should feel hopeful. They’re in the mix, and with Soto in his prime, the thought of him donning red pinstripes is enough to make any fan dream big.

Join The Chase

Mandatory Credit: Photo from YESNetwork YouTube