Flavin Media

“Given the potential of a centurion in the middle of the lineup, and one whose all-fields approach could be an incredible fit for 81 games at Fenway Park, the Sox seem willing to make the largest bid in franchise history.”

Via: Boston Globe pic.twitter.com/ixn17EE1CG

— Boston Strong (@BostonStrong_34) November 17, 2024

All things seem moderately positive about our evaluation of Juan Soto, but everyone needs to remember that no dollar numbers were discussed. The real meetings have realistically not happened yet, but the acknowledgment of the impact Soto would make is a decent start—because this player would definitely make multiple, infinitely valuable impacts…

Leadership: Soto’s competitive arrogance would have him stand as the leading personality on the team. Devers would love to follow his lead, and it would benefit him greatly—mentally—not having to focus on being an example for other players. The team would play with an edge that would separate them from other teams.

Contagious hitting mindset: Soto never gives in to a pitcher—at all, in any at-bat, ever. Other players might claim to do the same thing, but Soto’s stubbornness in the batter’s box is second to absolutely no one. His hitting, paired with an easily tempted Yankees lineup, still got them to a World Series…

Sufficient pop for the important part of the lineup: Soto’s addition to the middle of the order would eliminate any need for other top-tier hitting talent. You could spend the next few seasons only having to complement Soto and guys like Devers. Spend the money now, John Henry, and you can essentially cut costs in this area going forward.

There is simply no similar hitter or person you’re going to get in free agency—and he’s not too old either. This would 1000% make up for some of John Henry’s shortcomings over the past few years, and this signing would, at the very least, get us into the playoffs for the upcoming seasons.

John Henry, you better show interest when the real conversations are had…