Juan Soto reportedly rejected a $440 million dollar contract extension from the Washington Nationals, per MLB insider Ken Rosenthal. Soto, a 23-year old mega-star, is now rumored to be on the trade block. At the very least, Washington will ‘entertain' trade proposals for Soto.
But they are looking for a proposed deal that blows them away. Soto is not set to hit free agency for another few years, so there is no urgency to trade him ahead of the 2022 MLB trade deadline. However, the Nationals can maximize his value by trading him now.
So what kind of deals could they receive? Let's break down the 3 best Juan Soto trades for the Nationals.
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3 Best Juan Soto Trades for Nationals
Utilize Dodgers farm system
Despite being one of MLB's best teams, the Los Angeles Dodgers also feature one of the best farm systems in baseball. They have a combination of star-studded talent and prospect depth. The Nationals may opt to trade with the Dodgers for that reason alone.
Last season, Washington acquired an impressive trade package for Max Scherzer and Trea Turner from LA.
The Dodgers' top prospects include catcher Diego Cartaya and SP Bobby Miller. One of these two players would likely headline a trade. The Nationals are expecting nothing but the best so would probably ask for 2 or 3 more players in a Juan Soto trade.
Bobby Miller stands out given his extremely high ceiling. Additionally, the Nats acquired a top-tier catcher from LA last season in Keibert Ruiz. So unless they are set on developing catching depth, Miller is the best option to headline a deal.
Acquire the Yankees most exciting prospects
The New York Yankees are the best in MLB at the moment. They don't necessarily need Juan Soto, but this is the Yankees we are talking about. They are always open to adding superstar talent despite what their record is.
New York has been hesitant in regards to trading away top prospect Anthony Volpe. Volpe is a well-rounded shortstop who many believe can turn into one of MLB's best players someday. The Yankees have opted against signing MLB shortstops to long-term contracts since they consider Volpe their shortstop of the future.
But Juan Soto's talent may force the Yankees' hand.
Another young and exciting prospect is Jasson Dominguez. Dominguez became a fan-favorite due to videos surfacing showcasing his elite power. His ability to crush baseballs over the fence is his most enticing quality.
The Nationals would love to acquire both Dominguez and Volpe. However, that may prove to be unrealistic. But trading for a package centered around one of them makes sense.
Trade Juan Soto to a dark horse… the St. Louis Cardinals
Juan Soto has been linked to the Yankees, Mets, Dodgers, and Padres. However, there have been quiet stirrings about a Nationals-Cardinals deal.
And St. Louis possesses arguably the best prospect amongst any of the aforementioned teams.
Third baseman Jordan Walker is MLB's No. 7 overall prospect. He features elite power to go along with a solid hitting tool. His defense can still use some work, but he has a natural strong throwing arm.
The Cardinals could stun the bigger market teams and entice the Nationals with a Jordan Walker-led package. In most circumstances, St. Louis wouldn't even consider dealing away someone with Walker's potential. But Juan Soto might just be worth it.
And the Washington Nationals would certainly entertain a trade highlighted by Jordan Walker.