DALLAS — The Toronto Blue Jays recently faced disappointment in their pursuit of star outfielder Juan Soto, just a year after missing out on the opportunity to sign Shohei Ohtani. Blue Jays manager John Schneider expressed his thoughts during the winter meetings, emphasizing the excitement of being competitive in the league over the past two years. “Both of those guys are clearly great, elite players,” he noted. “You try to move forward and improve your team, but being in the mix as we have been is something to be encouraged about.”
The announcement came that Soto had agreed to a groundbreaking 15-year contract worth $765 million with the New York Mets, pending a successful physical examination. In addition to the Blue Jays, other high-profile teams such as the New York Yankees, Boston Red Sox, and Los Angeles Dodgers were also in contention for Soto. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the competitive landscape, stating, “There were obviously other teams more motivated, but what a great player.”
Soto’s new contract exceeds the $700 million deal that Ohtani signed with the Dodgers in December, marking a new milestone in Major League Baseball contracts. Roberts admitted surprise at Soto’s commitment to the Mets, saying, “I certainly didn’t see that happening, period. Very surprised. I think like all of us.”
Red Sox manager Alex Cora shared his positive experience working with Soto, pointing out that the young All-Star outfielder’s agent, Scott Boras, was also Cora’s agent during his playing career. “The kid gets it. He gets it. Let me put it that way,” Cora commented. He also praised the representation Soto has, mentioning the enjoyable partnership he had with Boras.
Schneider revealed that the Blue Jays’ pursuit of Soto was led by chairman Edward Rogers, CEO Mark Shapiro, and general manager Ross Atkins. “We made our best offer and were obviously interested, like many teams. I wish him the best,” Schneider expressed, reflecting on their efforts to secure Soto.
Looking to the future, Toronto’s first baseman Vladimir Guerrero Jr., a four-time All-Star, is set to enter free agency after the upcoming World Series. The salary trends initiated by both Ohtani and Soto’s contracts could influence Guerrero’s negotiations. Schneider expressed his desire for Guerrero to remain with the Blue Jays long-term, stating, “I want him to be here for a long time. It happens every year when someone signs a deal that raises the stakes a little. I’m looking forward to Vlad having another strong season, and I believe things will work out for him, especially with us.”
