The New York Yankees gear up to face the Los Angeles Dodgers in the World Series, the rest of MLB is watching closely, not only as spectators but also as contenders in the race for one of baseball’s most coveted free agents, Juan Soto. Set to hit the open market this offseason, Soto is expected to command a record-breaking contract exceeding $500 million, with some estimates going north of $600 million.

Initially, the Yankees and their cross-town rivals, the New York Mets, were seen as the top contenders for Soto’s services. However, the Toronto Blue Jays have emerged as a legitimate dark horse in the competition. The Blue Jays, who reportedly finished second in the Shohei Ohtani sweepstakes, have demonstrated their willingness to spend big in an effort to compete with the Yankees in the AL East. MLB insider Bob Nightengale recently confirmed Toronto’s serious interest in Soto.

Soto, coming off a career-best season, has proven his value. In 2023, he posted a .288 batting average, a .419 on-base percentage, 109 RBIs, 128 runs scored, and a career-high 41 home runs. While his success was likely aided by the protection of the Yankees’ stacked lineup, Toronto’s roster, featuring stars like Vladimir Guerrero Jr., offers its own powerful support.

For the Yankees, retaining Soto may hinge on their World Series outcome. Their payroll is already projected to exceed $249 million next year, far above the luxury tax threshold. A championship win could justify the financial strain, but a loss might prompt the Steinbrenner family to reconsider their investment in the superstar.