Juan Soto, the free-agent outfielder, steps up to a table covered with microphones, ready to address the press.
“This wasn’t an easy decision,” Soto tells the camera.
For weeks, Mets and Yankees fans have eagerly awaited news on where the four-time All-Star would sign in free agency. Was this going to be revealed in a social media video?
“But after meeting with a team, it became clear where I wanted to be,” Soto continues.
The 26-year-old right fielder reaches under the table, pulling out a hat. At first, the logo is hard to identify. Could it be the Yankees, Mets, or one of the other rumored suitors?
“That being said,” Soto says, placing the hat on his head, and the word “CELSIUS” becomes visible.
After taking a sip of the energy drink, Soto jokes, “What, you were expecting a different announcement?”
Yes! Baseball fans around the world have been eagerly waiting for weeks to hear where Soto will land. They’ll have to hold on a little longer, but it seems that negotiations are progressing.
Here’s what we know so far:
Soto has met with at least five teams: the Mets, Yankees, Blue Jays, Red Sox, and Dodgers. However, reports about the nature of these meetings have been mixed.
On Sunday, ESPN’s Buster Olney reported that the meetings were primarily about getting to know Soto. However, NJ Advance Media’s Randy Miller contradicted this on Monday, citing a source who stated that offers have already been made.
The expectation is that Soto could make his decision during the Winter Meetings, which take place from December 9-12. But even that timeline remains uncertain. For now, all fans can do is wait.
