Mets' Francisco Lindor Hopes Yankees' Juan Soto 'Breaks Every Record' with Contract

New York Yankees star Juan Soto is expected to receive a historic contract when he hits free agency this winter, and his peers are supporting him ahead of his impending payday.

"When it comes to the outfielder from across our borough," New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor told ESPN's Jeff Passan, "he's having a fantastic year and I hope he goes out there and breaks every record out there when it comes to getting paid. If it's with us, it'll be fantastic. He'll help us a lot."

Passan noted that "the industry agrees the floor for [Soto's] contract will be $500 million" and added that the number "will go higher, though, and when it does, that number will frighten away a vast majority of teams." At just 25 years old, the star slugger has a combination of skill and upside that is rare for a major-league free agent.

In his first year in New York, Soto has shined under the bright lights and is on the shortlist of contenders for American League MVP. Through 128 games, he's hitting .296/.427/.600 with 37 home runs and 95 RBI. He leads the majors with 109 walks.

Passan added that teams like the Boston Red Sox, Chicago Cubs, Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels and Seattle Mariners "are long shots to make a real push" for Soto this winter, so the bidding for his services appears likely to come down to a battle between the Yankees and the Mets.

The Yankees are chasing their first trip to the World Series since their last title win in 2009, so losing Soto would be disastrous. However, the Mets have a need for a power hitter in the middle of the order and are expected to be aggressive in their pursuit of the four-time All-Star.

Perhaps Lindor will get his wish of playing alongside Soto if the Mets are able to convince him to make a crosstown move this offseason.