Tennessee’s Nashville The Yankees’ willingness to include Michael King in a package with the Padres was contributing to the momentum of the trade that would bring Juan Soto to New York.
The acquisition of King and prospect Drew Thorpe was crucial for San Diego to seal a trade. At first, the Yankees had refused to accept both. However, King was taken into account at one point to bring the conversation back to life.
Though opinions among the Padres staff regarding Thorpe’s fastball ability to succeed in the major leagues are divided, they still think the right-hander is a good fit. King has had arm issues in the past and is scheduled to become a free agent following the 2025 campaign. Still, the right-hander finished last season as an outstanding starter and has been a dominant hybrid reliever.
In addition to reducing money (Soto will earn roughly $32 million in 2024), San Diego needs to replenish its pitching pool if it trades for Soto. The Yankees have a wealth of controllable and nearly MLB-ready pitchers. In addition to other things, San Diego is anticipated to lose closer Josh Hader and three starters in free agency (NL Cy Young winner Blake Snell, Seth Lugo, and Nick Martinez have already signed with Cincinnati).
It follows that guns will likely make up the majority of the Yankee package. But if a deal is finalized, the Padres might also acquire a catcher, or perhaps two. One goal has been to have Kyle Higashioka serve as young Luis Campusano’s backup. Furthermore, a potential like Ben Rice would be of interest.
The Yankees’ primary offseason target is southpaw Soto, who possesses power, patience, and a track record of exceptional accomplishments. With a.930 OPS and 35 home runs last season, he is one of the most productive offensive players in MLB history through the age of 24.
In order to keep chasing Soto, the Yankees sent reliever Greg Weissert, minor league pitchers Richard Fitts and Nicholas Judice, and Alex Verdugo to the Red Sox.
On Tuesday, Yankees General Manager Brian Cashman described Soto as a “transformational bat.” He is among the game’s greatest hitters. He therefore has an impact. However, he is currently having an effect on someone else.
“I’m aware that [Padres General Manager] A.J. Preller is being receptive to many various ideas, as we all ought to be as we approach the offseason and attempt to determine how to reorganize our teams to become what Texas proved to be this season. We’ll see, then. But he is undoubtedly a fantastic hitter.
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