“Looking forward to wearing one a long time” — Juan Soto's jersey statement seemingly hints at long-term Yankees deal amidst All-Star festivities
Juan Soto has been with three teams in his MLB career and hasn't even reached free agency yet. He's been traded twice, and he's about to enter free agency this offseason. When he does, he will presumably sign an astronomical long-term contract. It will be the first time he has a home for longer than a few years.
That's something he's looking forward to. The slugger has worn three different uniforms in his career, and he wants to stop changing jerseys.
"It's a little uncomfortable wearing different jerseys and changing teams. I'm looking forward to wearing one for a long time," he told ESPN's Jorge Castillo.
The New York Yankees outfielder could end up with a contract worth more than $500 million, but for now, he's focused on the present:
"If I knew the future, I would play the lottery. Nobody knows the future. At the end of the day, I'm enjoying this moment, representing the New York Yankees. ... I'm very happy to be part of (the game), but nobody knows what will happen next year."
Presumably, there will be a bidding war, which the Yankees may or may not be able to win.
Juan Soto admits one thing he's looking for
The New York Yankees will not be the only team that courts the superstar outfielder, but they do have something he will look for: a winning culture. Though they didn't win last year, they've been one of baseball's best teams with him on the roster.
When it comes to success, Soto said this:
"Who wouldn't want to be with a team that wins? For me, while you're on a winning team, it's always good to be there and be a part of it."
The Yankees have a history of success, but Soto is also one of the most valuable players in baseball. They won't be able to lowball him and use their team success as leverage, because plenty of other teams will show interest.