Report: Yankees, Padres discussed Soto trade

The New York Yankees and San Diego Padres had a preliminary conversation about a trade involving superstar outfielder Juan Soto, sources told Andy Martino of SNY.

However, talks have not yet progressed following the initial dialogue, according to Martino.

Rival executives reportedly expect Soto to be available in "the right deal" since he's primed to enter free agency following the 2024 campaign.

The 25-year-old is projected to make around $30 million in his final year of arbitration eligibility.

Soto owns a career .284/.421/.524 slash line with 160 homers, 483 RBIs, and 640 walks over six years between the Padres and Washington Nationals. He's a three-time All-Star, three-time Silver Slugger, and a 2019 World Series champion.

The 2021 NL MVP runner-up would be a significant addition for the Yankees, who are currently projected to start Aaron Judge, Jake Bauers, and Estevan Florial in the outfield in 2024.

New York failed to make the playoffs for the first time since 2016.