Yankees finalizing Juan Soto trade with Padres

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 New York Yankees appear to be on the verge of a blockbuster trade to acquire Juan Soto from the San Diego Padres.

While the deal has not been finalized, those involved expect the trade to get done this afternoon, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. The proposed deal would see Soto and outfielder Trent Grisham head to New York, with only “medicals and minor details” yet to be finalized.

Only medicals and minor details to go on Juan Soto trade talks with the Padres and Yankees. The principles are telling folks they expect the deal done fairly soon. Once done, NYY will also get Trent Grisham in deal to back up their revamped starting OF of Soto, Judge and Verdugo.

— Jon Heyman (@JonHeyman) December 6, 2023

Jon Morosi of MLB Network had reported earlier Wednesday that pitchers Michael King and Drew Thorpe are among those likely headed to San Diego as part of the deal.

News: Juan Soto trade to the Yankees is now "close to being finalized," source confirms.

If completed, Michael King and Drew Thorpe — along with additional players — will go to San Diego. @MLBNetwork @MLB

— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) December 6, 2023

While other teams have been involved in the process, the Yankees always appeared to be the favorites to land Soto. They were the most motivated to get something done, and have the pieces to do it.

Soto hit .275 with 35 home runs for the Padres in 2023, and those numbers could well improve by moving to a more hitter-friendly ballpark at Yankee Stadium. The Yankees will have him for a year before he hits free agency, but they certainly have the financial might to sign him long-term if they want to, even if he does test the open market.