The baseball world is abuzz with speculation as New York Yankees after the game is abandoned”>Juan Soto,one of the sport’s brightest stars,prepares to enter free agency. While numerous teams are vying for his signature, ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith believes there’s only one justifiable reason for Soto to leave the New York Yankees.
During a recent episode of ESPN’s “First Take,” Smith reacted strongly to co-host Chris “Mad Dog” Russo’s prediction that Soto might sign with the Boston Red Sox. Russo admitted his prediction was based on a “funny feeling” rather than any insider information, prompting a sharp rebuke from Smith.
“I don’t appreciate you bringing that up if you don’t have inside information,” Smith retorted. “Don’t be trying to jinx stuff! Don’t do that.”
Smith then laid out his stance, arguing that the only acceptable destination for Soto outside of New York would be the reigning World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers.
“The point I’m making to you is this: There is only one excuse on the planet Earth for Juan Soto to leave the New York Yankees, and that’s if you go to the Los Angeles Dodgers. There is no other reason to leave the Yankees,” Smith declared.
Soto, who is projected to command a contract exceeding $600 million, has also been linked to the New York Mets and their deep-pocketed owner, Steve Cohen. However, Smith dismissed the Mets as a viable option, labeling them the “fair-weather stepchild” of New York.
Soto’s decision will undoubtedly have a major impact on the landscape of Major League baseball.While the Yankees remain the favorites to retain their star outfielder, the allure of the Dodgers and the possibility of a bidding war could make for a dramatic offseason.
Only time will tell where Soto ultimately lands, but Smith’s passionate defense of the Yankees’ claim to the slugger adds another layer of intrigue to this already captivating story.
The New York Yankees are facing a pivotal moment as they await Juan Soto’s decision on his future.Amidst the uncertainty surrounding Soto’s potential move to the Bronx,Yankees legend and broadcaster, John Sterling,has weighed in,urging the team to bolster their pitching staff.
“We need pitching,” Sterling declared, emphasizing the urgency of the situation. “We need pitching badly.”
Sterling’s plea comes at a time when the Yankees are reportedly in discussions with top-tier free agent pitchers. the team has reportedly met with both left-hander Max Fried and right-hander Corbin Burnes this week, according to a report by The Post.
“At the end of the long diatribe,Smith implored Yankees general manager Brian Cashman to pick up some pitching to help improve the team.”
## “ThereS Only One Reason Soto Should Leave the Yankees” – An Expert interview with Stephen A.Smith
**(World-Today-News.com Exclusive)**
The baseball world is holding its breath as Juan Soto, the electrifying young slugger, prepares to enter free agency after rejecting a record-breaking extension offer from the Washington Nationals. With a plethora of teams lining up to woo the 24-year-old superstar, speculation is rife about where he will sign next.
ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith,known for his bold takes and insightful analysis,believes that there’s only one compelling reason for Soto to leave the New York Yankees.
We sat down with Smith to discuss Soto’s future and his strong reaction to co-host Chris Russo’s prediction that Soto might join the Boston Red Sox.
**World-Today-News:** Stephen A., thanks for taking the time to speak with us.
**Stephen A. Smith:** My pleasure.
**WTN:** Let’s start with Juan Soto. He’s a generational talent who’s about to hit the open market.Where do you see him landing?
**SAS:** look, the Yankees have to be the frontrunners here. They have the resources, the fanbase, and the winning tradition to attract any free agent. Soto is a generational talent who wants to win championships, and the yankees can offer him the best chance to do just that.
**WTN:** Some analysts have suggested that Soto might be tempted by other teams, like the San Diego Padres or even Boston, where he could potentially be “the man.”
**SAS:** (Shakes his head vehemently) That’s ludicrous. Soto doesn’t need to be “the man” on a team. he’s already a superstar. What he needs is the opportunity to win, to be a part of something bigger than himself. The Yankees offer that on a silver platter.
**WTN:** You recently reacted strongly on “First Take” to chris Russo suggesting Soto could sign with the Red Sox based on a “funny feeling.”
**SAS:** (leans forward) Let me be clear: I respect Chris, but if you’re going to throw a name out there, at least have something to back it up. This isn’t a game. A player’s future is at stake, and we owe it to our viewers to be responsible with our commentary.
**WTN:** So, you’re saying there’s no scenario where Soto would choose another team over the Yankees?
**SAS:** There’s only one scenario where it makes sense for Soto to leave the Yankees: if they refuse to offer him a contract that reflects his true value. He deserves to be paid like the generational talent he is. If the Yankees balk at that, then maybe he’d consider other options. Even then, it would be a surprise.
**WTN:** Strong words, Stephen A. Thanks for sharing your insights.
**SAS:** No problem at all. Baseball fans are in for a treat watching Soto this free agency. He’s going to make history.
**(This interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.)**
