The New York Yankees met with outfielder Juan Soto on Monday to explore the benefits of committing to the Bronx for the next ten years. While spending the 2024 season with the team might give them a leg up, numerous other teams are vying for his signature. Could general manager Brian Cashman have a contingency in mind, such as targeting Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernández? If the Yankees can’t secure Soto long-term, any alternative is likely to feel like a letdown.
At 26 years old, Soto played a key role in New York’s long-awaited return to the World Series after a drought since 2009. He’s among the top three contenders for the American League MVP Award, boasting a .989 OPS, 41 home runs, 109 RBIs, and 128 runs scored in 713 plate appearances. Even so, Hernández could serve as a solid alternative if needed.
In 2024, Hernández earned his third Silver Slugger Award and played a key role in the Dodgers’ World Series victory. The right-handed hitter posted an .840 OPS with 33 home runs, 99 RBIs, and 84 runs scored. At 32 years old, signing Hernández would be a much more budget-friendly move for the Yankees. MLB Trade Rumors projects him to land a three-year, $60 million deal, compared to the more than $600 million estimates for Soto’s potential contract.
A significant challenge in viewing Hernández as a backup plan for the Yankees is that he might not remain available by the time Soto makes his decision. According to ESPN’s Jeff Passan, the Dodgers are the frontrunners to re-sign Hernández, with the Boston Red Sox and Baltimore Orioles also expressing interest. Passan suggests Hernández could be one of the first major signings of the offseason. If Soto is the Yankees’ primary target, they may need to quickly shift to Plan C if he opts to leave the Bronx.
