There's a simple reason Soto's name has popped up on the trade rumor mill. He's slated for free agency after the 2024 season.
And while no one can say for certain exactly how much his next contract will be worth, let's just say it wouldn't exactly lend itself toward a cost-cutting strategy.
Again, though, he is a premier talent, so if he's worth the money, then it's hard to pinpoint his deal as the one dragging down this payroll.
Even if the Padres are less than bullish about their chances of keeping him past next season, they don't have to deal him now. His trade value will be high whenever he's exposed to the market. So, San Diego's best move—short of extending Soto—is likely giving this group another chance to compete, and if things are really going south once next season's deadline rolls around, then and only then should a Soto trade be remotely considered.
