An MLB insider predicts a mega trade from Juan Soto to the evil Yankees empire

Could Juan Soto be traded within the calendar year? MLB insider Jim Bowden believes so, and he predicted the Yankees as likely suitors.

Soto is constantly being named in trade rumors — albeit perhaps unrealistic — until he signs a long-term renewal with the Washington Nationals. By then, baseball fans in the DC area should get used to Articles, just like the content you’re about to read.

Currently the richest contract in baseball belongs to Mike Trout, who signed for a record $426.5 million in 2019. Soto’s will break that if he stays healthy and maintains his current pace. Soto is under contract until 2024, although two of those are arbitration years.

Finally, could New York trade for a player of Soto’s caliber? Sure, technically. Every player is available. But is that realistic? Jim Bowden of The Athletic thinks, at least enough to list it in his “Bold Predictions” article published Monday:

“The Nationals (will) increase their offer for superstar right fielder Juan Soto from $350 million to $390 million and he declines, preferring to go free in three years. The Nationals then trade him to the Yankees on December 29 for a package of seven prospects, including their top prospect, Anthony Volpe.”

Juan Soto Rumors: Could He Be Traded to the Yankees?

The old Yankees might have jumped at the thought of trading for a player like Soto. But these aren’t the same Yankees that Bowden seems to be forgetting here.

New York doesn’t want to spend $500m on a player, especially after Aaron Judge’s (probable) renewal. That’ll weigh enough on Hal Steinbrenner’s wallet for his liking.

New York also clearly appreciates Volpe. This was one of the reasons they passed Carlos Correa on at a high price and were reportedly unwilling to include him in most if not all trade packs.

Soto would be a wonderful addition to the Yankees. May I say a very smart one. But these Yankees aren’t spending like it’s 2009. And the Nationals don’t feel inclined to trade away their homegrown star, at least not anytime soon.

Arbitration sucks, but abandoning renewal talks too soon is far worse when it comes to the future (and possibly current) face of baseball.