Phillies hitting coach could be key in convincing $600 million superstar to sign

The Philadelphia Phillies had a disappointing postseason. They could look to shake things up and add another superstar to make a deeper run in 2025. The New York Post's Jon Heyman revealed that the team will meet with Juan Soto.

FanSided's Mark Powell noted that Soto's connection to Trea Turner and Bryce Harper could play a role in bringing Soto to the Phillies. However, he also noted that hitting coach Kevin Long could play a role.

"Soto has played with several players on the Phillies roster already, notably former Washington Nationals stars Bryce Harper and Trea Turner. Soto and Turner won a ring together with the Nationals," wrote Powell. "Their hitting coach at that time was Kevin Long, who is currently employed in that same position with the Phillies."

Wherever Soto signs will have to pay him record-breaking money. However, Soto will have the final say in what he wants his next team to be. The Phillies will be able to surround him with stars, just like the New York Yankees or Los Angeles Dodgers would, but those teams cannot offer him the chance to play with his former Washington Nationals teammates.

"Familiarity isn't always a good thing, but it is the only advantage the Phillies have, especially with so much money already invested in the on-field product," wrote Powell. "Unless the Washington Nationals decide to schedule a meeting with Soto, the Phillies will keep their offseason edge."

Soto would not be the face of the franchise if he signed with the Phillies. However, that would also be the case with the Yankees and Dodgers. Perhaps Turner and Harper are enough on the field to bring him to Philadelphia. Long being on the staff could be the kicker if Soto values familiarity.

11 polled Major League Baseball executives thought that Soto would sign a deal over $600 million, according to ESPN's Jesse Rogers.

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