**Dodgers Remain in the Hunt for Juan Soto Despite High Price Tags**
The Dodgers are staying in the Juan Soto sweepstakes, according to MLB broadcaster Michael Kay. The team is taking a strategic approach, waiting for the ideal moment to strike. Soto, the 25-year-old outfielder, is attracting attention from several major teams, including the Dodgers, Mets, Yankees, Red Sox, and Blue Jays.
Reports indicate that the Mets have made the highest offer at $730 million, with the Yankees not far behind at $710 million. However, the Dodgers are still in the race, thanks in part to their smart use of deferred contracts.
As Kay noted on The Michael Kay Show, “The Dodgers are still in it because they’re so smart. They hover to see if there is an opening to jump in. They’re kings of deferment too.”
Los Angeles has a history of managing large payrolls, with contracts like Shohei Ohtani’s $680 million and Blake Snell’s $66 million both featuring extensive deferments. This financial flexibility could help the Dodgers add Soto to a star-studded roster that already includes Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Ohtani.
**Los Angeles Seeks Offensive Playmakers Following Hernández Departure**
While adding Juan Soto would certainly strengthen the Dodgers’ offense, the team now faces a greater need for playmakers after losing All-Star outfielder Teoscar Hernández. Hernández, who hit 33 home runs and earned a World Series title during his only season with Los Angeles, is now a free agent and expected to command around $75 million on the open market.
There’s speculation that Hernández could return to the Dodgers, but his decision will likely depend on whether Los Angeles secures Soto. If they do, the Dodgers may shift their attention to re-signing Hernández, whose offensive contributions would complement their already strong lineup, featuring future Hall of Famers.
As Juan Soto’s free agency draws to a close, the Dodgers’ patient and strategic approach has kept them in the race. While it’s still uncertain if they’ll secure another major acquisition, Los Angeles remains poised and ready to make their move.
