Padres, Yankees reportedly talked Juan Soto trade

Aug 8, 2022; San Diego, California, USA; San Diego Padres right fielder Juan Soto (22) runs to the dugout during the middle of the first inning against the San Francisco Giants at Petco Park. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

The San Diego Padres sound at least open to trading outfielder Juan Soto, and the New York Yankees are willing to look into the move.

The Padres and Yankees have had a preliminary discussion about a Soto trade, according to Andy Martino of SNY. The talks were not serious and have not progressed further than the initial discussion.

If the Padres are willing to have these discussions, it is an indication that they are at least willing to consider trading Soto. The star outfielder will be entering the final season of his contract in 2024, and the Padres have not ruled out a move, though they have made clear their preference would be to sign him to a long-term contract extension.

Soto hit .275 with 35 home runs for the Padres in 2023, even though the team struggled and failed to make the playoffs despite high preseason expectations. He would likely fetch a major haul on the trade market, but due to his contractual status, the package the Padres would get in return may not be as good as what they gave up to land him in the first place.