Yankees and Mets Compete for Juan Soto

The New York Yankees are aggressively pursuing free agent Juan Soto, who is predicted to command a contract upwards of $650 million. Despite a positive meeting with Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner, who expressed a desire to retain Soto, Steinbrenner remains unsure of the team's chances against competitors like the New York Mets. The Mets, backed by owner Steve Cohen's financial power, are considered strong contenders, with reports suggesting Cohen might outbid others by an additional $50 million. Soto's departure would be a significant blow to the Yankees, who relied heavily on his 41-home-run season to reach the World Series. The Yankees are also exploring backup plans, such as acquiring other free agents like Teoscar Hernández, should Soto choose to sign elsewhere. Meanwhile, the Mets are also eyeing other big names, like Corbin Burnes, to bolster their roster for a potential World Series run.