Speculations are an inevitable part of the sports world. As the free agency is approaching, fans, media, and MLB insiders are predicting different fates for the star players. From LA Angles’ Shohei Ohtani to San Diego Padres’ Juan Soto, the baseball world is speculating on their probable landing spots. While the New York-based teams like the Yankees and the Mets are already being rumored as the top contenders for the latter, a recent piece of update from an MLB insider has put a halt on all the ongoing predictions.

Last year after the trade deadline, the Padres were believed to be a team that was on the cusp of greatness because they traded the biggest target of the market, Juan Soto. After Soto joined, the Padres made it to the NLCS last year. But this year, the team boasted a different tale. Throughout the 2023 season, the team experienced inconsistency, finishing 3rd in the NL West. Although they could not make it to the playoffs this season, Soto has well-played his part. Lately, a well-known reporter confirmed Soto’s intention regarding his future with the Padres.

Latest Update Halts Trade Speculation Surrounding Juan Soto

While the rumors surrounding Soto reached its peak, with everyone predicting a potential team for the outfielder, MLB insider Hector Gomez went in a different route. Earlier this September, Gomez reported that the Friars are underway for the contract extension discussions for the Dominican-Republican outfielder. Per Gomez, “The talks are going very well.” Recently, he shared a follow-up post on those internal conversations.

Earlier today, Hector’s Twitter post spilled the beans on Padres and Soto’s situation. He reported, “Hi my friend. Juan Soto has felt very good with the #Padres. If the team makes him a good contract extension offer, he will stay with the Padres.”

Initially, the Juan Soto trade rumor originated after the speculations on Padres’ payroll cut came to light. The rumors mostly convey, the team will trade Soto to decrease their yearly pay roll. Therefore, naturally, everyone started looking for a suitable landing spot for the young baseball star.

Amidst these progressing rumors, the two New York teams have been emerging as potent contenders to get the Padres’ star. But with Gomez’s confirmation about Soto’s contract extension issue, now things have cleared up.

Juan Soto Can Bring Best of Two World to the Padres

As a player, the Dominican-Republican star has proved his worth. Hence, having him on the roster not only brings continuity to the team’s lineup, but can also attract massive fan attention. Moreover, the Padres are financially capable of giving what Soto desires for his contract. Therefore, the Padres might not like to give up on such a potential player, which can add more power to the team’s lineup.

Read More: While the World Dreams of Juan Soto Joining the Yankees, Here Are 3 Reasons Why He Might Not Be the Perfect Fit

Soto remaining in the Padres will be a strong point for the team and a ray of hope for their 2024 season.

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