What Signing Juan Soto Would Mean Long-term
The Juan Soto sweepstakes are picking up steam. And while Jays fans are understandably skeptical about the team actually landing the coveted superstar free agent, especially following the Ohtani frenzy of last season, multiple reports have suggested that Toronto might have the highest offer on the table. But is a good idea?
While several analysts and plenty of rumours have the Jays as the highest bidder, Fox Sports' Ken Rosenthal - one of more respected baseball writers working in the game today - thinks the Jays have no shot. Nevertheless, let's break down the implications.
While the asking price for Soto has not been officially revealed, it would be well in excess of 300 million, with some insiders that him and his agent Scott Boras will be looking for a deal similar to the 10 year/ $700 million one that Shohei Ohtani signed with the Dodgers last offseason.
And while it's no secret that the Blue Jays could use both another outfielder and some more power in their lineup, especially if Gold Glove Winner Daulton Varsho isn't ready by the time opening day rolls around, shelling out that kind of money could have lasting effects on the Blue Jays payroll, even if Soto sustains his success long term.
First the good news, much of the Jays roster are free agents after either 2025 or 2026. This includes Kevin Gausman, Christ Bassitt, and of course Bo Bichette and Vladimir Guerrero Jr. (It should be noted that Jose Berrios can opt out of his seven year deal after the 2026 season as well). With those contracts coming off the books, the Jays will have the bank to commit to Soto long term.
Doing so however might complicate the returns of one or both of Vladdy and Bichette. With fans itching for the front office to sign Guerrero to a long-term extension, one that could bring in as much as $300 million for the superstar, can they afford to spend nearly a billion dollars on two players.
The fans want Soto. But they want Guerrero signed to long-term extension more than they want Soto. Vladdy is the face of the franchise and the centrepiece of a team who's competitive window is dwindling.
The baseball world should know where Soto ends up in about a week to ten days from now. Jays fans are hedging their bets on him actually coming north, but with Toronto prepared to go all in and outbid everybody, it's not inconceivable to envision #22 roaming the outfield come spring. Is it worth potentially losing Vladimir Guerrero Jr.? I'm not so sure.
| POLL | ||
Should the Blue Jays go all out for Juan Soto? | ||
| Yes | 45 | 23.2 % |
| No | 71 | 36.6 % |
| Yes, but only if Vladdy is signed as well | 78 | 40.2 % |
| List of polls | ||
