The Washington Nationals may reportedly be "compelled" to move superstar outfielder Juan Soto ahead of the Aug. 2 trade deadline given the lack of progress toward a contract extension.

ESPN's Buster Olney reported Wednesday the Nats would likely set a "really high price" since Soto can't become a free agent until after the 2024 season, but rival executives believe the San Diego Padres and Toronto Blue Jays would still be "motivated" suitors.

"If they're not going to sign him [to a long-term deal], then they'll need to trade him," an MLB source told Olney. "The question is: When?"

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In February, Soto confirmed to ESPN's Enrique Rojas he turned down a 13-year, $350 million extension offer from the Nationals with an eye toward eventually hitting the open market.

"Yes, they made me the offer a couple of months ago, before the lockout we have in baseball," he said. "But right now, me and my agents think the best option is to go year after year and wait for free agency. My agent, Scott Boras, is in control of that situation."