The Juan Soto trade has delivered exceptional results for the New York Yankees in 2024, exceeding their expectations. To avoid losing him in MLB free agency in 2025, the Yankees must be ready to spend significantly more than they did in the trade.
Soto, who will turn 26 in October, is set to be one of the most sought-after players in MLB free agency in years. Although he doesn’t match Shohei Ohtani’s overall value, Soto will be entering his prime when he signs his next contract. Currently earning $31 million this season, Soto will hit free agency in 2025.
Standing 6-foot-2, the corner outfielder has returned to MVP-level performance this season, surpassing or matching his previous year’s stats with the San Diego Padres in nearly 150 fewer at-bats. His defense has also improved, and he continues to be the most disciplined hitter in baseball, consistently leading MLB in walk rates.
This outstanding contract year is why Soto is expected to command a substantial deal in the upcoming free agency. Experts, in a poll conducted by Jon Heyman of the New York Post, predict Soto’s next contract could range from $500-$550 million over 10-plus years, or up to $550-$600 million over 12-14 years. While this is less than the 10-year, $700 million contract Shohei Ohtani signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers, Soto’s deal would surpass Mike Trout’s 12-year, $426.5 million contract and Aaron Judge’s 9-year, $360 million deal. If Ohtani returns to pitching, Soto is likely to become the highest-paid everyday player in MLB by 2025.