Yankees nearing trade for Padres slugger

San Diego Padres slugger Juan Soto Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

Yankees nearing blockbuster trade for Padres slugger

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated 12/6/23

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 be completed Wednesday 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 had 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. Assuming the trade is completed, the Yankees would have Soto for a year before he hits free agency, though they certainly have the financial might to sign him long-term deal, even if he does test the open market.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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