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Juan Soto, one of the most exciting talents in MLB right now, is set to enter a pivotal free agency in 2025. In his single season with the New York Yankees, Soto achieved a career-high season with 41 home runs and 108 RBIs. Hence, a big payday is definitely on the cards for Soto.

That being said, the New York Yankees’ financial troubles have elevated since Gerrit Cole reportedly opted out of his contract. Nevertheless, in case the Yanks fail to land Soto, the front office has a backup plan ready. Read on to learn more about the alleged plan.

Yankees To Replace Juan Soto With Pete Alonso

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The New York Yankees are facing a pivotal offseason as they navigate the uncertainty surrounding Juan Soto’s free agency. After a heartbreaking loss in the 2024 World Series, rumors suggest that if Soto decides to leave, the Yanks might consider pursuing Pete Alonso as a “Plan B.” However, this potential move has sparked concern among fans and analysts alike. Pete Alonso could theoretically add offensive firepower to the Yankee lineup. However, critics argue that his inclusion would not address the team’s fundamental flaws that have been evident in recent seasons: defensive weaknesses, lack of athleticism, reliance on home runs, and struggles with situational hitting. Alonso’s profile is marked by a high strikeout rate, poor defense, and limited baserunning ability.

This mirrors some of the very issues that have kept the New York Yankees from consistent success. Having said that, the sentiment among fans, as highlighted in recent discussions, is that if Juan Soto, who brought versatility and clutch performance to the Yanks, isn’t retained, the team needs to consider more comprehensive solutions. Options like acquiring Max Fried or Corbin Burnes for rotation strength or Alex Bregman for his balanced offensive and defensive skills are more appealing to many. These players would better address the gaps in consistency, defensive stability, and strategic play. Ultimately, fans believe it’s “Soto or bust” for a good reason. Soto was instrumental in the team’s postseason push, showing why he was considered the missing piece. Hence, if the franchise opts for a less impactful free agent without addressing a deeper lineup and defensive issues, it could leave them trailing behind other MLB powerhouses for years.

Soto Makes Himself Available For All 30 Teams

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While Juan Soto’s stint with the New York Yankees was fruitful, highlighted by a potent partnership with Aaron Judge and a run to the World Series, Soto emphasized that he would consider offers from all 30 MLB teams. He expressed satisfaction with his time in New York but remains open to evaluating every opportunity.

This declaration tempers any expectations that the Yankees’ success or the camaraderie he developed with teammates will be the deciding factors in retaining him. Overall, the Yankees, backed by fan support and their AL pennant win, are in the mix but must prepare for aggressive rival bids. Soto himself remains diplomatic about the process. “The Yankees are one of the teams. And we will go from there,” he said.