Juan Soto Rumors: When Could the Star Free Agent Sign This Offseason?

Juan Soto’s free agency might break away from Scott Boras’ usual approach. Boras, known for his late-offseason deals, often waits until just before spring training — or even closer to Opening Day — to finalize contracts for his top clients. Last offseason was no different. Several high-profile players under Boras waited months before signing:

• Blake Snell, a two-time Cy Young winner, joined the San Francisco Giants on March 18.

• Matt Chapman signed a one-year deal with the Giants two weeks earlier.

• JD Martinez, a seasoned designated hitter, agreed to a contract with the Mets on March 23.

• Jordan Montgomery, a key figure in the Texas Rangers’ 2023 World Series victory, didn’t sign with the Arizona Diamondbacks until March 29.

Soto’s case, however, stands apart. As one of baseball’s brightest stars and at just 26 years old, he is expected to secure a contract worth more than $600 million — a figure that dwarfs Boras’ late signings from previous years. Given the enormity of Soto’s deal, it’s in Boras’ best interest to settle negotiations earlier in the offseason to avoid delaying the rest of the free-agent market.

With the Winter Meetings set for Dec. 9-12 in Dallas, TX, it’s unlikely Soto’s decision will linger into January. Many teams are eager to finalize their rosters, and Soto’s choice will likely trigger a domino effect across the league.

Several organizations have already expressed interest. The Mets, Yankees, Blue Jays, and Red Sox have reportedly met with him, while the Dodgers joined the pursuit earlier this week. A surprise bidder like the Phillies, Giants, Nationals, or Rays can always enter the mix to make things even more competitive.

Unlike Bryce Harper’s free agency in 2019 — when Boras secured a then-record $330 million deal after a long negotiation process — Soto’s free agency seems primed for a faster resolution. Offers are already rolling in, and with Soto’s star power, teams are unlikely to wait too long to strike a deal.

As one of the most significant free agents in MLB history, Soto’s decision will shape the fortunes of the team that signs him and set the tone for the rest of the offseason. Expect a heated bidding war as teams vie to add this generational talent to their roster.