Derek Jeter helped the Yankees acquire a superstar outfielder when he was part of the Marlins ownership group during the Giancarlo Stanton trade, and now, Jeter wants to see the Yanks make a splash for another stud outfielder.
As part of the FOX broadcast at Tuesday’s All-Star Game, the Yankee legend named Juan Soto as the big piece the Yanks should pursue at the trade deadline.
“I do believe the Padres could get hot and make some waves in the NL West,” Jeter said. “But if they don’t…if they don’t have a good next couple of weeks, I wouldn’t mind seeing the Yankees go out and get Juan Soto.
“You don’t know how long Judge is gonna be out. They need some offense. I think it makes sense.”
Soto, 24, still has a year left of eligibility before becoming a free agent in 2025, and despite a slow start to his Padres tenure last year, he is now thriving in San Diego, posting a 153 OPS+ with 15 home runs while once again leading the league in walks. The three-time All-Star would bring a prominent lefty bat to the Yankee lineup, but would come at a heavy price.
The Padres entered the All-Star break six games out of a playoff spot as one of the more disappointing teams of the season given their payroll. Soto could be on the block if San Diego falls out of the race, though he would give the Yanks another right fielder whenever Judge returns.
“[Put him] wherever you want,” Jeter said. “Put him in left or right.”
Follow Ryan Chichester on Twitter: @ryanchichester1
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