Juan Soto at the Forefront of Red Sox’s Free Agency Pursuit
Juan Soto, a major star in Major League Baseball’s free agency market, has drawn significant interest from several teams, including the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, New York Mets, and Philadelphia Phillies. The Red Sox reportedly held a three-hour meeting with Soto in California last week, as confirmed by CEO Sam Kennedy during the annual owners’ meetings.
At just 26 years old, Soto is poised to enhance the Red Sox’s lineup with a powerful bat, filling a crucial gap evident during the 2023 season. Speculation suggests that Soto’s highly anticipated contract could surpass $600 million. In response to the potential signing, Kennedy expressed the team’s commitment to investing heavily in talent, stating, “We are investing more than we did last year … Our priority is 90 to 95 wins, and winning the American League East.”
Even if Boston does not secure Soto, Kennedy assured that the Red Sox are dedicated to pursuing high-caliber players and indicated financial flexibility that could allow them to exceed the Competitive Balance Tax (CBT) threshold of $241 million. “There is an extreme urgency … to compete for the American League East Championship,” he emphasized.
Moreover, Kennedy highlighted the need for bolstering the team’s pitching staff, both starters and relievers. With the Red Sox missing the postseason for three consecutive years and five out of the last six, there is a strong sense of urgency to return to contention. Last offseason, fans were promised significant efforts to improve, yet the team finished with a lackluster 81-81 record. As the offseason unfolds, the Red Sox remain focused on revitalizing their roster and aiming for a successful 2025 season.
Source
Photo credit www.masslive.com
