Yankees, Mets Compete for Juan Soto

Juan Soto, the New York Yankees' priority signing this offseason, is reportedly considering offers from five teams: the Yankees, Mets, Dodgers, Red Sox, and Blue Jays, with potential contract figures ranging from $550 million to over $700 million. The Yankees are preparing backup plans in case they do not secure Soto, focusing on players like Alex Bregman and Christian Walker, as well as potentially trading for Cody Bellinger. Meanwhile, the Mets are viewed as strong contenders to sign Soto due to their financial resources, although they also have Bellinger as a fallback option. Soto's impressive performance in his first season with the Yankees, including 41 home runs, has made him a sought-after free agent. The Mets are also looking to bolster their pitching rotation, potentially exploring a trade for White Sox ace Garrett Crochet. The competition for Soto underscores the high stakes of the upcoming MLB offseason.