If the San Diego Padres make a decision to buy All-Star outfielder Juan Soto this coming iciness, then the Chicago Cubs determine to be concerned in this sort of trade discussions, Bruce Levine of 670 The Score reports.
In 2023, Soto, who became 25 on Wednesday, performed in all 162 video games and had a batting line of .275/.410/.519 with 35 house runs and an MLB-leading 132 walks. An elite mixture of energy and plate self-discipline, Soto for his occupation owns a extremely spectacular OPS+ of 157 throughout portions of six major-league seasons. The three-time All-Star and three-time Silver Slugger is slated totally free company after the 2024 season.
Coming off a disappointing 2023 season, the Padres are rumored to be having a look to chop payroll by means of a vital margin heading into 2024. That’s particularly the case for the reason that this 12 months that they had the most important Opening Day payroll of any group no longer based totally in New York. Soto in his ultimate 12 months of wage arbitration might command a 2024 wage in far more than $30 million, which is helping provide an explanation for why the Padres could also be having a look to transport probably the most easiest hitters in baseball.
As for the Cubs, they are rising from a rebuild length and a slightly decent 83-win season with huge assets at their disposal. While David Ross’ membership had a powerful offensive assault in 2023, a hitter like Soto improves any offense. As for what it might take to pry Soto clear of San Diego, that is determined by how a lot, if any, money the Padres kick in to defray his 2024 wage dedication. The upper the share of that wage Soto’s new group will pay, the fewer his new group should give again in phrases of possibilities and controllable younger skill.
Previously, the New York Yankees have additionally been reported as doubtlessly having passion in a Soto blockbuster.