MLB Rumors: Juan Soto Eyed by 'Highly Motivated' Blue Jays; In 'Big' for Yankees FA

New York Yankees star Juan Soto has been under intense watch this offseason after hitting free agency following the team's World Series loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The New York Mets are in a battle with the Yankees over his contract, but the dark-horse Toronto Blue Jays may swoop in to steal Soto from both teams.

The Blue Jays are reportedly "highly motivated" and plan to "be in big" for the 26-year-old, according to Jon Heyman of The New York Post.

Soto's signing is expected to be a record-setting deal and, according to Heyman, the Blue Jays' ownership and powerful incentives to turn the team around could be enough to lure Soto to Toronto.

In addition to the Yankees and Mets, the Los Angeles Dodgers, San Francisco Giants and Boston Red Sox are also planning visits with the superstar this week, according to Heyman.

Following the Yankees' World Series loss, Soto said he would consider "all 30 teams" during his free agency. While he prefers to join a winning team, he also wants one that demonstrates "how much they want me," according to Heyman.

One general manager expressed the belief that Soto will aim for a record-breaking 15-year contract, likely surpassing the $40 million annual salary of Aaron Judge, the highest for a position player, and potentially exceeding the $43.3 million record set by Max Scherzer and Justin Verlander.

The GM also suggested that a deal of at least 13 years, potentially tying the record, will be offered, per Heyman.