According to the report, Soto pointed out 5 major areas of need for the Yankees to address on the roster before signing new extension deal
This offseason, Juan Soto might not just be the Yankees’ centerpiece player—he could also be their problem solver. Reports suggest the superstar slugger voiced some candid assessments during his meeting with Yankees brass, pinpointing areas for improvement in the roster. Soto reportedly called attention to issues like subpar defense in right field and other structural flaws, adding a dose of direct honesty to the conversation.
The meeting, which included Hal Steinbrenner, GM Brian Cashman, and, according to Bob Klapisch, Randy Levine, comes as the Yankees fight to keep Soto long-term amid heavy competition from teams like the Mets and Blue Jays. The Yankees acquired Soto last offseason in a blockbuster trade with the Padres, knowing full well his contract situation could lead to a high-stakes free agency sweepstakes. Now, keeping Soto may require not just a lucrative offer but also a compelling plan to address the team’s shortcomings.
In the wake of reports describing Soto’s meetings with other teams as going “very well,” Klapisch shared that Steinbrenner pledged to make upgrades and assured Soto the Yankees would compete financially with Mets owner Steve Cohen. While some fans might roll their eyes at Steinbrenner’s promises, his track record includes signing Carlos Rodón and greenlighting the trade for Soto, demonstrating a willingness to take big swings.
Still, Soto’s honesty raises an intriguing possibility: what if he diagnoses the Yankees’ issues, plants seeds of change, and then signs elsewhere? It would be the most ironic twist in a saga that already has Yankees fans on edge. Whether Soto sticks around or not, his feedback could shape the Yankees’ trajectory for years to come.
Funniest possible outcome would be Juan Soto scolding Yankees about changes they should make, then leaving anyway
Juan Soto’s vision for a long-term commitment to the Yankees seems to go beyond immediate fixes, aiming to build a sustainable contender. His reported feedback likely centers on several key areas for the franchise to address:
1. Bullpen Upgrades
With the uncertainty surrounding Clay Holmes and Tommy Kahnle, Soto could be pushing for reliable late-inning arms. The bullpen faltered at critical moments last season, and adding power arms or versatile relievers is a logical priority.
2. Starting Pitching Depth
The Yankees have their ace in Gerrit Cole, but the back end of the rotation has question marks. Adding a durable and dependable starter—possibly one like Jordan Montgomery, who thrived after leaving the Yankees—could stabilize the rotation and relieve pressure from their current arms.
3. Power at First Base
With Anthony Rizzo battling decline and concussion concerns, Soto could see an opportunity to add a consistent power hitter at first base. Someone like Christian Walker would fit perfectly, providing both offense and solid defense. This move would also balance the Yankees’ lineup with another run producer.
4. Jasson Domínguez’s Role
Giving Jasson Domínguez a legitimate chance to play regularly in 2025 seems inevitable. While Domínguez showed promise in his brief debut, Soto might see his potential as part of the long-term puzzle, especially if paired with a more logical defensive alignment.
5. Outfield Defense
The Yankees’ decision to play Aaron Judge in center field last season forced compromises defensively in right field, weakening their outfield alignment. Soto may be hinting at a more optimized setup—perhaps moving Judge back to his Gold Glove position in right and ensuring a capable center fielder, like Domínguez or another acquisition, is manning the middle.
Long-Term Vision
At just 26, Soto likely sees his prime years as an opportunity to help shape the Yankees into perennial contenders. That means considering future free-agent classes, such as potential targets in 2025-2027, and advocating for investments that keep the team competitive over time. With Scott Boras as his agent, Soto understands his leverage and the influence he can wield to push for these changes.
If Soto signs long-term, the Yankees’ upgrades wouldn’t need to happen all at once. He could be looking to build a dynasty, aligning the franchise’s trajectory with his peak years. But it starts with addressing the immediate concerns that keep the Yankees from maximizing their current roster.