MLB: in the absence of Juan Soto, the Blue Jays would turn to Anthony Santander or Alex Bregman

After the New York Post Reported Monday that the Toronto Blue Jays are the team most likely to hire Juan Soto outside of the New York Yankees and New York Mets, Buster Olney adds that few executives believe Soto will leave the Big Apple .

“I haven’t talked to anyone who really believes he’s going to sign with any team other than the Yankees or the Mets,” Olney said in an interview with TSN 1050 Wednesday.

Olney believes Soto’s next contract will be worth around US$700 million, similar to the one Shohei Ohtani signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers last year.

If the Blue Jays fail to hire Soto, they could still make a big move by turning to outfielder Anthony Santander or third baseman Alex Bregman.

Santander hit 44 home runs with the Baltimore Orioles last season, his career-high total. He would fit in well with a club that desperately needs power. The Yankees could, however, be in the running for Santander’s services if they fail to keep Soto.

As for Bregman, who is reportedly looking for a contract of more than 6 years worth $300 million, the Yankees, the Boston Red Sox and the Philadelphia Phillies are also among the suitors.