Outfielder Juan Soto is baseball’s top free agent this winter. The number of teams interested in signing him is increasing. Could exceed $600 million. The New York Yankees and New York Mets are considered his most likely targets, but the Philadelphia Phillies have reason to be optimistic about their chances of landing the 26-year-old.

The Phillies entered 2024 with championship expectations. They responded by posting a 95-67 record and winning the National League East for the first time since 2011. But their quest for a title fell short after the Mets eliminated them in the NLDS.

Here’s the thing as president of baseball operations Dave Dombrowski prepares for next season: upgrades its staff. Team president John Middleton is also ready to provide funds to improve the squad.

“Given where we are in contract cycles and the minor league players coming in, I expect player payroll to be higher (than this year) rather than lower,” Middleton said. Scott Lauber of the Philadelphia Inquirer. “I’d be surprised if it was the same, I’d be very surprised if it was lower. I don’t see it being lower.”

soto was linked We see the Phillies as a possible landing spot. Even if they’re not one of the favorites, three things are working in Dombrowski’s favor as he prepares to make his defense.

Geographic location and Soto’s previous ties to current Phillies players are two of those reasons, according to the report. Mark Feinsand from MLB.com. “Soto reportedly prefers to stay on the East Coast, which could be an obstacle for the Dodgers or any West Coast club,” he said. “One source said the Phillies will likely try out the four-time All-Star, hoping the presence of former Nationals teammates Bryce Harper, Trea Turner and Kyle Schwarber and hitting coach Kevin Long could give them an advantage.”

The third reason is Soto’s desire to be competitive every year.

“Juan loves to win,” Scott Boras said at GM meetings via New York Daily News. The representative also said his client “wants ownership that he knows will support his annual earning opportunity.”

The Phillies have reached the postseason every year since 2022 and will have championship expectations heading into next year. middleton He was also open about his desire to hoist another World Series trophy.

Philadelphia isn’t the best landing spot for Soto. But that won’t stop the organization from pursuing the outfielder and making a compelling case that Citizens Bank Park could be his home for the foreseeable future.

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