MAJOR-BREAKING: Yankees Outlines Potential $380M Backup Plan If Juan Soto Bolts.

Although the New York Yankees lost to the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2024 World Series, it was their first appearance in the Fall Classic since 2009. Outfielder Juan Soto played a key role in helping the Yankees reach that milestone. Now, the focus shifts to whether general manager Brian Cashman can keep the superstar slugger on what could be a record-breaking deal.

ESPN’s Jeff Passan stated on Friday that re-signing Soto would be “the perfect transaction” for the Yankees, as he fits seamlessly into their roster. However, if the Yankees fail to retain him, replacing Soto’s offensive output would require multiple acquisitions.

Soto, who finished third in the American League MVP voting, had an outstanding season with a .989 OPS, 41 home runs, 109 RBIs, and 128 runs scored in 713 plate appearances. He also shined in the postseason, posting a 1.101 OPS with four homers, nine RBIs, and 12 runs in 64 plate appearances.

The Athletic’s Tim Britton forecasts that Soto’s next contract could be a 13-year, $611 million deal. If the Yankees can’t re-sign him, they’d have significant financial flexibility to pursue multiple players.

Passan suggested a potential alternative strategy for the Yankees: they could sign Willy Adames for third base, shift Jazz Chisholm Jr. to center field, move Aaron Judge to right field, and add Christian Walker or Pete Alonso at first base, along with Blake Snell in the rotation.

This plan would cost them between $380 million and $445 million, depending on whether Walker or Alonso is signed. The contract predictions for these players are as follows: Adames for six years at $160 million, Walker for three years at $60 million, Alonso for five years at $125 million, and Snell for five years at $160 million.

Passan also notes that the Yankees may need to address second base, assuming they want to find an external replacement for Gleyber Torres. Regardless of what happens with Soto’s free agency, it’s clear that the Yankees’ offseason is far from settled.