13 July 2023 , 22:01
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When Derek Jeter played for the New York Yankees, the team spared no expense to build their roster, shelling out massive contracts in a short period for CC Sabathia, Jacoby Ellsbury, Mark Teixeira and Alex Rodriguez. As a pundit, Jeter wants to see that era fully replicated.
The Hall of Fame shortstop has requested New York pursue San Diego Padres outfielder Juan Soto via trade, which would require taking on the prorated remainder of his $23 million deal for 2023 and a similar figure determined through an arbitration process next year.
The Yankees already have the second-highest payroll in baseball at $279.3 million, with Aaron Judge, Gerrit Cole and Giancarlo Stanton all set to make more than $30 million individually this year. But Jeter is focused on New York's on-field results, not owner Hal Steinbrenner's pocketbook.
"I do believe the San Diego Padres could get hot and really make some waves in the National League West," Jeter said on Fox. "But if they don't, I wouldn't mind seeing the Yankees go out and get Juan Soto. You don't know how long Judge is going to be out, they need some offense, I think it makes sense."
Soto is one of MLB's best hitters, launching 15 home runs in 90 games this season. Unlike many power bats, he doesn't strike out often and leads baseball with 83 walks drawn. At 24 years old, he projects to remain an elite middle-of-the-order threat for another decade.
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Even if the Yankees are willing to absorb his salary, perhaps with an eye on giving him a long-term extension, he might not be available for trade. San Diego are 43-47 and fourth in the NL West. In an All-Star Game interview, Soto said they still believe they can enjoy a second-half turnaround. Additionally, the Padres may want to retain him for next season, when winter roster adjustments could lead to better on-field results.
Still, New York have a history of swinging big for trade targets and free agents. Bringing in Soto would give manager Aaron Boone one of the most fearsome lineup combinations in the game if he stacks Soto, Aaron Judge and Anthony Rizzo in order.
Juan Soto is the subject of trade rumours as his San Diego Padres continue to struggle. (Getty Images)Judge still doesn't have a firm timetable for returning from the toe injury he sustained in June crashing into an outfield fence in Los Angeles. However, he could play DH full-time to expedite his return, according to The New York Times.
Whether it's Judge coming back, Soto entering the fold or both players sharing a lineup by next month, the Yankees are eager for offensive reinforcements of some variety. They fired hitting coach Dillon Lawson and replaced him with former MLB player Sean Casey ahead of the All-Star break.
New York hold MLB's joint-worst batting average (.231) entering the second half of the campaign. They would love prime Jeter and his career .310 average, but Soto might be the next-best thing if they're willing to pay for him.