“Don’t jinx stuff,” Stephen A. Smith and ‘Mad Dog’ Russo make WILD Juan Soto claim ahead of Winter Meetings

Stephen A. Smith unleashes on ‘Mad Dog’ Russo for his wild take on Juan Soto prior to his rumored signing date.

“Don’t jinx stuff,” Stephen A. Smith and ‘Mad Dog’ Russo make WILD Juan Soto claim ahead of Winter Meetings

Stephen A. Smith, Juan Soto, Chris Russo [Image Credit: The US Sun/Imago/Deadline]

The MLB world is waiting to hear the team’s name with whom superstar free agent Juan Soto will end up signing. The wait may not be long as insiders claim the outfielder to make a decision within the next few days prior to the Winter Meetings.

Since the end of the World Series, Soto’s name has been etched in the 2024 free agency spotlight. Every MLB team is looking at him and his agent Scott Boras to announce or even leave a hint as to which team he is interested in signing with.

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Soto’s last season performance further lifted up his already decorated resume and the New York Yankees reaching the World Series just added the cherry on top. While the team disappointingly lost in the series, Soto’s experience of the Fall Classic will be crucial in his 2025 journey.

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In a recent discussion on ‘First Take’, insiders and commentators like Chris Russo or ‘Mad Dog’ Russo and Stephen A. Smith had a fiery exchange on the topic. Russo took a wild guess based on his “funny feeling” that Juan Soto may end up with the Boston Red Sox.

He confirmed that there is no base for his statement and it’s just what he feels at the moment. Stephen A. Smith immediately counterattacked his statement saying there’s no way he signs with the Red Sox other than New York Yankees.

I don’t appreciate you bringing that up if you don’t have inside information. Don’t be trying to jinx stuff! Don’t do that.

Stephen A. Smith on First Take.

He further added that the only reason he is ready to forgive Soto for leaving the pinstripes is if he signs with the LA Dodgers. He even believes Soto will not go to the “fair-weather stepchild” of the Yankees, the NY Mets.

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The Mets are one of the frontrunners in Juan Soto’s bid. Their owner Steve Cohen is set to increase $50 million on any offer made by any team. Furthermore, given his deep pockets, it’s not out of the equation. However, Stephen A. Smith has a different opinion.

Juan Soto’s free agency bid rumored to increase $750 million for 15 years

As per industry sources, Juan Soto’s $600 million contract lineup can increase up to $750 million for 15 years. While it’s still in rumors, the million-dollar figure has caught social media attention.

Juan Soto
Juan Soto [Image Credit: Total Pro Sports]

Just like Stephen A. Smith, commentator Jack Curry had a “gut feeling” that Soto would remain in the Bronx for the 2025 season. As per Soto’s agent Scott Boras, the outfielder is not only looking at financial stability but also championship-bred.

Which team will fit his options is the question. Given his talent, he’ll be a powerhouse addition to any team he signs up with. However, it’ll hurt the Yankees if he ends up with a rival team.

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Soto’s performance, both in the regular season and in the postseason, set its own record. His resume is solid, and at only 26 years, he has much to offer to any team.