A recent update from a prominent MLB analyst suggests that the New York Mets are determined to engage in a competitive bidding process to ensure that Juan Soto’s time with the New York Yankees is limited to just one season.

The recent offseason unfolded in contrasting ways for the Mets and Yankees. Both teams faced significant disappointment in 2023 and recognized the need to bolster their rosters for a chance at playoff contention this year. While the Yankees didn’t secure the ace they sought, they did manage to make impactful acquisitions with All-Stars Marcus Stroman and Juan Soto.

Regrettably, the Mets didn’t acquire or trade for any players anticipated to enhance their prospects for a successful 2024 season. Nevertheless, it appears that many within the organization are already aiming to rectify that by pursuing the top free agent this offseason, who coincidentally is currently with the Yankees.

Juan Soto stats (2023): .275 AVG, .410 OBP, .519 SLG, 35 HR, 109 RBI, 97 R

Earlier this week, ESPN MLB insider Buster Olney shared insights from his visit to Mets spring training. He mentioned, “The most intriguing tidbit from Mets’ camp yesterday — and it’s not unexpected, given the expiring contracts like [Max] Scherzer’s — is their full intention to pursue Juan Soto next winter,” Olney wrote on X, formerly Twitter.

Despite his recent trade to the Yankees and apparent satisfaction with his new team, the three-time All-Star plans to test his value in the open market after the season. Speculations suggest he could land a deal nearing half a billion dollars in MLB free agency.

The New York Mets’ payroll is anticipated to plummet from $290 million to $155 million after this season (via SpotRac).