Juan Soto reveals Yankees were ‘No. 1’ early in free agency and why he ultimately picked Mets
Juan Soto reveals Yankees were ‘No. 1’ early in free agency and why he ultimately picked Mets
In a recent interview, Juan Soto disclosed that the New York Yankees were his initial top choice during free agency. However, after careful consideration, he opted to sign with the New York Mets. Soto praised Mets owner Steve Cohen for fostering a family-friendly environment and demonstrating a strong commitment to building a championship-winning team. This dedication resonated with Soto, influencing his decision to join the Mets.
Contract negotiations also played a pivotal role in Soto’s choice. The Mets presented a 15-year, $765 million offer, which included a $75 million signing bonus and potential escalators that could increase the total value to $805 million. In contrast, the Yankees proposed a 16-year, $760 million contract without similar incentives. Additionally, the Mets offered perks such as a suite for all home games, which the Yankees did not match.
Soto’s concerns about the Yankees’ long-term competitiveness and their indecisiveness during contract negotiations further influenced his decision. Despite a positive experience with the Yankees’ team security and amenities, Soto felt that Cohen’s vision for the Mets aligned better with his career goals.
Since joining the Mets, Soto has integrated seamlessly into the team, showcasing his skills during spring training. He has expressed satisfaction with his fitness and swing, and teammates have praised his consistency and work ethic. Soto’s presence is anticipated to have a significant positive impact on the Mets’ performance in the upcoming season.
The signing has also influenced New York’s Dominican community, with many fans shifting their allegiance from the Yankees to the Mets. Stores like Peligro Sports in Washington Heights have reported increased sales of Mets merchandise following Soto’s signing. This shift reflects the community’s strong connection to baseball and pride in their Dominican heritage.
