Yankees Meet with Free Agent Juan Soto

New York Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner confirmed a positive meeting with free agent Juan Soto in California, emphasizing the club's interest in retaining the star slugger, who played a key role in their World Series appearance. Soto, who has been meeting with several teams, including the New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, Toronto Blue Jays, and Los Angeles Dodgers, is expected to make a significant contract decision. While the Yankees have not disclosed any contract details or offers, Steinbrenner expressed a willingness to establish a strong relationship with Soto akin to those with Gerrit Cole and Aaron Judge. The Mets, with owner Steve Cohen's financial capacity, are considered the Yankees' primary competitors for Soto, reportedly willing to offer over $50 million per season. Despite fiscal constraints, the Yankees remain in contention, with Steinbrenner acknowledging the fans' desire to keep Soto in New York. Soto's meetings have generally been positive, with no specific contract numbers discussed, as he evaluates his options among the top contenders.