Phillies Enter the Race for Free Agent Star Juan Soto

The Philadelphia Phillies have joined the fray for highly sought-after free agent Juan Soto. The outfielder has already met with several major league teams, including the New York Yankees, New York Mets, Boston Red Sox, and Toronto Blue Jays, with another meeting scheduled with the Los Angeles Dodgers later today. According to Jon Heyman of the New York Post, the Phillies plan to meet with Soto, although a specific date has not yet been confirmed.

This development aligns with recent history, as Phillies ownership and team president Dave Dombrowski have been aggressive in pursuing top-tier free agents. The team previously signed stars like Bryce Harper and Trea Turner and may hope to reunite Soto with his former Washington Nationals teammates in Philadelphia.

Earlier this month, Phillies chairman John Middleton confirmed the team’s interest in Soto, stating they would at least engage in discussions. However, Middleton acknowledged what many believe—that Soto might prefer to play in New York. «Soto wants to be in New York, and I don’t mind being a stalking horse,» Middleton said. «At some point, if Dave and I get that feeling, we’ll probably say, ‘You know what, we’re not going to win this’.»

Despite potential challenges, the Phillies have nothing to lose by meeting with Soto and his agent, Scott Boras. Should other teams fail to meet Soto’s demands, or unforeseen circumstances arise, Philadelphia could position itself as an attractive option given its status as a consistent contender.

A contract with Soto would significantly escalate the Phillies’ payroll. Currently, Philadelphia’s payroll is approximately $269 million, reaching a $288 million tax threshold for 2025. Adding Soto’s projected salary would push the team beyond the highest tax penalty tier of $301 million. Given the Phillies’ luxury tax payments over the past three seasons, signing Soto could effectively double their financial commitment.

There is speculation that Phillies management might tolerate a one-year financial spike, particularly as key players such as Aaron Nola and Rhys Hoskins will become free agents next winter, potentially freeing up substantial funds.

Should Soto join the Phillies without any roster changes, he and Nick Castellanos would likely cover the corner outfield positions. Though this may not be ideal from a defensive standpoint, the team could accept the trade-off to include Soto’s powerful bat in the lineup.

The Phillies’ ongoing involvement in the Soto sweepstakes demonstrates their desire to remain competitive while exploring every avenue to enhance their roster.