The Phillies don’t seem to be especially happy to start both of their young speedster players every game. Talks with agents, opposing teams, and Phillies officials have shown that the team has looked for innovative ways to address the outfield. Johan Rojas, 23, and Brandon Marsh, 25, are two of their younger players who could compete for starting positions. However, the Phillies aren’t entirely sure which of them will be a regular player in 2024. Essentially, they don’t want to rule out the possibility that Marsh or Rojas could succeed, but they also don’t want to commit to 600 plate appearances apiece for them. “Creative solutions” surely? Juan Soto, what say you?
An ideal fit for the Phillies, who were lacking an average hitter with plate discipline during their most recent deep playoff run. With 132 walks during the previous season, Soto led the majors in walks for the third time. Along with 35 home runs and 109 RBI, he also batted.275. He has won four Silver Sluggers and was selected to three All-Star teams. It has been reported that the Padres intend to trade him this month at the Winter Meetings.
A month ago, it appeared inevitable that the Padres, who are trying to cut costs, would have to trade Soto, who will earn over $30 million in arbitration before becoming a free agent after the 2024 season. However, that scenario is getting closer to happening for the team. According to sources, San Diego is holding trade talks with teams for the 25-year-old player that they acquired at the trade deadline in 2022.
There are numerous possible issues. For many teams, Soto’s salary is unworkable, even for a single season. Some teams are reluctant to part with substantial talent for a player who might leave at the end of the season. Although sources indicated it’s unlikely, it’s not impossible that the Padres could extend Soto’s contract. [ESPN]
After that, Passan says the Phillies are a “possibility.” They are arguably among the select few teams with the salary flexibility necessary to acquire $30 million and Soto. The Phillies, along with the Yankees, Mets, and Cubs, appear to be the teams in the running for Soto at this time. The Phillies are already anticipated to be above the luxury tax threshold.
The Padres prefer youthful pitchers. Prospects like Mick Abel and Griff McGarry (the injured Andrew Painter is likely untouchable) give Philly that. In addition, they have secured the majority of their rotation spots for the foreseeable future especially if Zack Wheeler can be extended. Why not apply that skill to further your career elsewhere?
Strangely, he would be reunited with Trea Turner and Harper in a Soto trade three superstars who were teammates as Nationals five years ago. Given that Soto will be a free agent in 2025, a trade for him would be risky. However, the Phillies are no strangers to offering long-term contracts to successful players. Additionally, a Soto signing and extension would contribute to extending the Phillies’ championship window at just 25 years old.