MLB insider details why Toronto Blue Jays not a serious threat to New York Yankees and New York Mets in Juan Soto sweepstakes.

MLB insider details why Toronto Blue Jays not a serious threat to New York Yankees and New York Mets in Juan Soto sweepstakes.

As the MLB offseason heats up and Juan Soto’s name continues to dominate trade rumors, teams across the league are making moves to bolster their rosters. The Toronto Blue Jays, often mentioned as a potential landing spot for the San Diego Padres’ star outfielder, appear to be a long shot in the race, according to a recent report from an MLB insider. Despite their deep talent pool and competitive window, the Blue Jays are unlikely to pose a serious threat to the New York Yankees and New York Mets in the Juan Soto sweepstakes.

Soto, one of the most coveted players in baseball, has reportedly drawn heavy interest from both New York clubs, with each team eager to add the 25-year-old slugger to their lineup. However, despite the Blue Jays’ ongoing pursuit of major upgrades this offseason, insiders suggest they do not have the same resources or immediate need for Soto that the Yankees and Mets possess.

One of the biggest hurdles for the Blue Jays is their financial flexibility. While the team is in a strong position financially, they already have a high payroll tied up in key players like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., Bo Bichette, and George Springer. Adding a player of Soto’s caliber, who is expected to command a hefty extension once traded, could complicate the team’s budget, particularly with Toronto’s preference for keeping payroll at manageable levels.

The Yankees and Mets, on the other hand, have much deeper pockets and are willing to spend aggressively to secure their roster’s future. The Yankees, under general manager Brian Cashman, have already made significant moves to address their offensive deficiencies, and acquiring Soto would give them an immediate upgrade in the outfield. The Mets, under Steve Cohen’s ownership, have shown an unparalleled willingness to open up their checkbook in pursuit of high-impact players, and adding a player like Soto fits their long-term vision of building a World Series contender.

Additionally, both New York teams boast stronger farm systems with more enticing prospects than Toronto. While the Blue Jays have a solid pool of young talent, teams like the Yankees and Mets have a deeper and more varied collection of top-tier prospects that could better match San Diego’s asking price. The Padres are expected to demand a king’s ransom for Soto, and both the Yankees and Mets are better positioned to meet that demand with their high-ceiling prospects.

In short, while the Blue Jays remain a team to watch in the offseason, their chances of landing Juan Soto are slim compared to the financial firepower and prospect depth of the Yankees and Mets. For now, Toronto is more likely to focus on other avenues to improve their roster for the 2024 season.