MLB analyst compares Juan Soto to Barry Bonds, calling free agent super dangerous; names Anthony Santander, and Christian Walker as backup options
MLB analyst Dave Sims, who replaced John Sterling as WFAN’s Yankees play-by-play voice, participated in a Q&A with The Post columnist Steve Serby. The duo discussed various topics, including Juan Soto's comparison to Barry Bonds, free agency and some backup options.
When asked why Juan Soto is a great baseball player, Sims said his greatness stems from his exceptional understanding of the strike zone, comparable to Barry Bonds' legendary eye.
Soto is disciplined at the plate, often drawing walks by waiting for his ideal pitch. Additionally, his ability to hit with power to all fields, rather than relying solely on pulling the ball, makes him an incredibly dangerous hitter.
As for the recruiting pitch, if he were in a position to land Soto, Sims said:
"You know what’s it’s like in NYC … with the Yankees and their fan base."
When asked about a potential Plan B for the Yankees, Sims noted that while GM Brian Cashman doesn’t seek his advice, Anthony Santander from Baltimore could be a logical option. Santander, a switch-hitter, hit over 40 home runs (44) last season. Sims also highlighted Christian Walker as an excellent alternative, praising him as a standout first baseman.
Juan Soto expected to sign contract north of $600 million after MLB GM Winter Meetings
Earlier, it was rumored that Juan Soto would make a decision by Thanksgiving. However, since that hasn’t happened, chances are a decision may come during the MLB GM Winter Meetings, which will take place in Dallas from Dec. 8-11.
"The Juan Soto sweepstakes are in full swing, and while no conclusion is expected before Thanksgiving, the feeling around the industry is that the slugger could make his decision prior to the Winter Meetings, which get underway on Dec. 9 in Dallas," MLB.com's Mark Feinsand wrote.
ESPN's David Schoenfield predicts that the Mets would land Soto on a 13-year, $611 million contract. While there are other candidates in the race as well, including the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees and the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Mets seem to have an edge in the discussions.