Juan Soto’s acquisition in the Bronx was a mix of shock and excitement across Major League Baseball. The 25-year-old superstar, who displays characteristics of a seasoned veteran despite his young age, has found himself on his third team in less than two years—the New York Yankees. Nevertheless, in the midst of the whirlwind of trades and movements, one everlasting theme comes to the forefront. And that’s Soto’s desire for stability. Does this mean he is ready to find a home in New York?

Well, there’s a sense of ease around Soto getting used to the Yankees. He lightheartedly talks about how much smoother this transition feels compared to his first. However, underneath that smile lies an elaborate history. First, with the Washington Nationals, Soto blossomed into a World Series champion and a phenom that he is known as today. Good news for the Yankees, I guess? But is this a premature celebration?

The Yankees and Soto are a fun and thrilling pair. Having him juxtaposed with Aaron Judge to create a fearsome offensive duo is nothing less than a treat to Yankees fans. However, the 2024 season is only the beginning. Soto is one season away from becoming baseball’s most coveted free agent. Approximately in seven months. While the potential for a record-breaking contract exists, Soto prioritizes stability above all else. His words were, “That’s the best thing for me. Stay in one place and try to, whenever I do this deal, just finish in that one spot.”

One might wonder what makes him say that. Well, the Dominican’s past experiences with contract negotiations haven’t been a cakewalk. In 2022, he famously turned down a $440 million, 15-year contract from the Nationals. This was a decision that became public fodder. The relentless scrutiny and pressure took a toll on him, which has him craving a strong standing.

Here’s what Soto said: “The Nationals showed me the business side of the game. [It’s] something I’m glad they showed me” speaking about his first experience. His initial presence in the Washington Nationals club bears testament to the emotional investment he had made. The star outfielder’s subsequent trade to the San Diego Padres opened up a newfound understanding of the realities of professional sports.

The Scars of Public Negotiations Led to Soto Seeking Stability: Is New York Yankees the Answer?

Soto seems like a man who likes having strong roots where he plays. Because “there were days,” Soto recalled, “where I’d wake up and get so many messages… it just made you not even want to go to the field.” This was definitely not something he’d want to do again. The young gun craves a team that values his long-term commitment, not just his on-field prowess. But the Padres weren’t the answer either.

Despite Soto’s initial optimism, they opted to trade him to pursue other goals. Now, with the Yankees, Soto finds himself in a franchise known for its rich history and dedicated fan base. While a long-term deal with the Yankees would be a coup for both parties, questions remain. Will the Yankees be willing to offer the kind of mega-deal Soto’s talent deserves? Will other teams, like the Mets, enter the mix with even more enticing offers?