Early indications are that the Mets will indeed make a play for Juan Soto.

The word on the Yankees is that Soto likes it there (and he seems to like it too), so they look like worthy favorites in the big derby.

“It’s the Yankees, then the Mets, then everyone else,” one rival manager surmises.

Best guess here: The Dodgers are the biggest threat outside of New York because they consistently win and spend money. (There is no East Coast preference on Soto's part, as he was willing to re-sign in San Diego.)

Pete Alonso makes sense for the Nats, although some still view the incumbent Mets as the favorites due to 1) fan interest and 2) the generosity of Steve Cohen.

If they moved the up-and-coming Michael Busch from first base to second base, the Cubs could work for Alonso.

Maybe the Astros or Mariners too.

Alex Bregman has improved greatly (17 homers since July 1), but while the Astros will try again, it has been said that the two teams have had a contract far apart since last spring.

Could the Yankees make sense for Bregman? Jazz Chisholm Jr. could move up to the No. 2 spot, where he is Gold Glove caliber.

The Mets are interviewing for the international scouting director position.

A couple of candidates who have been heard include Giants scouting manager Felix Peguero and former Marlins scouting director Roman Ocumare.

Bobby Witt Jr. and Francisco Lindor were MVPs until recently.

Now the guess here is that Shohei Ohtani will be unanimous and Aaron Judge will be near unanimous.