Even though the Philadelphia Phillies are currently focused on winning the World Series this year, speculation persists about their interest in top players available during the upcoming offseason.
While it’s uncertain if the Phillies will commit to another major contract, rumors persist due to Dave Dombrowski’s reputation for taking bold risks. If there’s a player who could benefit Philadelphia, regardless of the cost, Dombrowski is likely to pursue him. One player of particular interest is New York Yankees star Juan Soto.
Soto, who is widely regarded as one of the best players in Major League Baseball, will enter free agency this winter and is expected to command a contract worth over $500 million.
The prospect of the Phillies targeting Soto raises concerns, particularly given the substantial financial implications on their current payroll. However, the aging core of their team might prompt them to consider extending their competitive window by acquiring Soto.
According to a recent report by Bob Nightengale of USA Today, the Phillies are expected to be one of five teams vying for Soto’s services. The other teams include the New York Yankees, New York Mets, Toronto Blue Jays, and San Francisco Giants.
This report follows a similar update from Jorge Castillo of ESPN, who mentioned that the Phillies, along with the Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, and Los Angeles Dodgers, could be among the teams making inquiries.
While the Phillies’ immediate need is a center fielder, Soto’s exceptional talent might lead them to address this later. If they can secure Soto, they’ll find a solution for their center field situation.
In 2024, Soto is having one of the best seasons of his career, boasting a .284/.420/.532 slash line and a 175 OPS+, which would be his second-best career mark if it holds.