If Yankees are serious about competing long-term for a World Series, letting Juan Soto go in free agency shouldn’t even be a consideration. With Mets owner Steve Cohen expected to aggressively pursue Soto, driving up his total contract expectations, the Yankees are poised for a high stakes bidding war with their rivals across town.

The Yankees are preparing for a bidding war with the Mets

Super agent Scott Boras is sure to take advantage of the situation, with the goal of pushing Soto’s price tag to astronomical heights. According to NJ.comManaging Partner Hal Steinbrenner has already indicated that he will make a “competitive” offer for Soto:

“Steinbrenner has decided to compete with the Mets and all other suitors for Juan Soto. The Yankees will be eager for what they expect to be an expensive courtship.”

After leading the Yankees to the World Series this season, Soto has proven indispensable, and there is no realistic way for the Yankees to repeat their success without him. At just 26 years old, Soto could become the cornerstone of the franchise for the next decade, especially as the Yankees prepare for Aaron Judge’s inevitable decline. With Judge already 32 years old, the Yankees need a young, top-notch slugger to lean on as their current stars age.

Soto’s long-term impact on the future of the Yankees

Soto’s potential as a young power hitter gives hope for a new Yankees dynasty. Judge, Gerrit Cole and Giancarlo Stanton have all been critical players, but they are all aging – Cole has dealt with injuries this year, and Stanton is showing signs of decline. Soto, on the other hand, would be the anchor of this roster, providing consistent power and plate discipline for years to come.

It’s nearly impossible to replace Soto’s impact in free agency, even if the Yankees were to pursue multiple players instead of one superstar. Losing him would mean losing lineup stability, and the Yankees know how valuable he is to their future.

Roster decisions beyond Soto

The Yankees face big decisions at first base, second base and left field this offseason. Gleyber Torres is set for free agency, Anthony Rizzo has a club option that will likely be declined, and Alex Verdugo is also headed to the open market.

As it stands, Jasson Dominguez is expected to start in left field next season, while the team could consider moving Jazz Chisholm back to their preferred second base. Rookie Ben Rice could be marketed as a budget-friendly option at first base, but each of those moves hinges heavily on the Yankees’ success in securing Soto.

Budgeting to keep Soto in the Bronx

Steinbrenner has publicly stated his goal to keep the team’s payroll under $300 million, which is possible if they structure an effective long-term offer for Soto. However, Steinbrenner and management are expected to take their time before making major changes to the roster, with a likely focus on positioning their budget to make a competitive offer.

A must-win situation for the Yankees in 2025

Failing to win the World Series this season undoubtedly stings for the Yankees. Had they won, Soto’s departure would have hurt, but at least they would have had a championship in hand. Instead, the season ended in heartbreak, leaving the team with a renewed sense of purpose and a clear priority for the offseason: keeping Juan Soto.

Letting Soto go could set the Yankees back in ways they simply can’t afford. Keeping him not only gives them a proven offensive force but keeps alive their hopes of reclaiming their reputation as perennial World Series contenders. If they are serious about revenge in 2025, the first, most critical step is to keep Soto in the Bronx.