**Mets Owner Steve Cohen Makes His First Big Juan Soto Move with Scott Boras Visit**
In the world of baseball, few transactions create as much buzz as the potential acquisition of a superstar like Juan Soto. The 25-year-old outfielder, a former National League batting champion and one of the brightest stars in the sport, has long been a subject of trade rumors ever since his time with the Washington Nationals ended in a blockbuster deal with the San Diego Padres in 2022. Now, as the Padres have stumbled in their pursuit of the postseason and Soto enters the final years of his contract, the New York Mets under owner Steve Cohen appear to be preparing a bold move that could reshape the franchise’s future.
Steve Cohen, known for his deep pockets and willingness to invest heavily in his team, is no stranger to making waves in the baseball world. Since taking over as owner of the Mets in 2020, Cohen has repeatedly demonstrated his commitment to building a championship contender through large payrolls, high-profile signings, and a willingness to make significant trades. After a disappointing 2023 season, the Mets are looking to reload and retool for 2024, and bringing in a player of Soto’s caliber could be just what they need to re-enter contention.
Soto, who has been represented by super-agent Scott Boras throughout his career, has been the subject of various trade rumors, with many teams believing that he could be available in a blockbuster deal. Though Soto is still under contract with the Padres for two more seasons, his future with the team remains uncertain. With the Padres underperforming in recent seasons and Soto set to become a free agent in 2025, the time may be ripe for a trade that would allow the Padres to maximize their return before he potentially walks in free agency.
Enter Steve Cohen and the Mets. On the heels of a disappointing 2023 season in which the Mets finished far below expectations, Cohen has made it clear that the team will be more active in the market this offseason. His recent visit with Scott Boras signals a serious intent to pursue Soto, a move that could shake up the baseball landscape. The timing of this visit is particularly noteworthy, as it comes on the heels of growing speculation that the Padres are open to listening to offers for their star outfielder.
The Mets, despite their struggles in 2023, are still a team rich with talent, particularly in their pitching staff. The addition of a player like Soto, a left-handed power hitter who has already demonstrated elite on-base skills and the ability to hit for both average and power, would provide an immediate jolt to their lineup. Soto’s ability to be a cornerstone for a franchise is unquestioned—he has already accumulated multiple All-Star appearances and a World Series ring with Washington in 2019. His approach at the plate, which combines patience and power, would complement the Mets’ existing lineup, making them an even more formidable force in the National League.
The involvement of Scott Boras, one of the most influential agents in baseball, is also crucial in understanding the dynamics of a potential trade. Boras is known for pushing the market to its maximum potential, and his relationship with Cohen could open the door to a deal. Historically, Boras has represented several high-profile players in free-agent negotiations, and his ability to drive up value for his clients could play a role in securing the best possible terms for Soto.
In conclusion, Steve Cohen’s visit with Scott Boras is a significant step toward what could be the first major acquisition of the Mets’ offseason. Juan Soto’s arrival would instantly elevate the Mets’ offense and send a message to the rest of the league that New York is once again a serious contender. If Cohen can pull off a deal for the dynamic outfielder, it could mark the beginning of a new era for the Mets—a time when they are not just playing in the big leagues, but aiming to dominate them.
Hal Steinbrenner quickly sets up Yankees’ own Juan Soto plan after Mets schedule visit
By Mark W. Sanchez and Jon Heyman
Published Nov. 8, 2024, 3:38 p.m. ET
Hal Steinbrenner will not go down without a flight.
Cohen is set to make the trip to Soto and Boras next week, sources told The Post on Thursday, in an attempt to lure the slugger to Queens.
The billionaire behemoths have begun the fight for one of the most enticing baseball free agents ever — a battle that surely will include much of the rest of the league but could come down to the New York powers.
It is not just Mets owner Steve Cohen who is planning a trip to Southern California to see Juan Soto and Scott Boras. The Yankees owner is expected to fly out for a visit with the superstar free agent and his agent in about a week and a half, industry sources said Friday.
The exact date for the sitdown was not immediately clear, but more clear was the fact the Yankees were assured of a talk with Soto after the Mets have theirs.
