Wed Nov 13 10:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Yankees Manager Boone Aims to Re-Sign Star Outfielder Soto

**NEW YORK** – Aaron Boone, confirmed to be returning as manager of the New York Yankees for the 2025 season, has set his sights on bringing back superstar outfielder Juan Soto. Boone will join the Yankees delegation, led by owner Hal Steinbrenner, in a meeting with Soto in California next week. Soto is also set to meet with the New York Mets, led by owner Steve Cohen.

Soto, who turned 26 during the World Series, is considered the most sought-after free agent since Alex Rodriguez in 2000. He is expected to sign a contract exceeding $500 million, potentially surpassing Shohei Ohtani’s $700 million deal in total value. The Toronto Blue Jays, San Francisco Giants, Los Angeles Dodgers, and Philadelphia Phillies are also in the running for his services, but the Mets and Yankees are considered the favorites.

“Obviously, what Juan did for us between the lines this year was pretty special,” said Boone. “But equally, I was just impressed with the person. Really getting to know him and getting to manage him was a pleasure.”

Soto’s performance with the Yankees in 2024 was nothing short of spectacular. He hit a career-high 41 home runs, finished second in the majors in on-base percentage, and third in both OPS and wRC+. His go-ahead, three-run home run in the 10th inning of Game 5 of the ALCS sent the Yankees to the World Series.

Boone expressed his confidence in the team’s pursuit of Soto, saying, “We’ll try and put our best foot forward with it and hope that Juan’s back. But also know that whatever happens, I’m confident that the Steinbrenner family and the front office are going to do everything possible to put us in a position to have another strong team, another team that has a chance to compete for a championship.”

While Boone is focused on securing Soto, his future beyond the 2025 season remains uncertain. The manager has not discussed a contract extension with the organization.

Regarding his coaching staff, Boone confirmed that changes are expected, but declined to provide specifics.

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