The Subway Series is back-and with it comes one of the most anticipated moments of the MLB season: Juan Soto’s return to Yankee Stadium.
Now wearing a Mets uniform, the All-Star outfielder is bracing for a likely chorus of boos from Yankees fans still bitter over his offseason move across town.
But amid the looming crowd reaction and media buzz, Yankees captain Aaron Judge has taken the high road-offering nothing but support and understanding for his former teammate.
Judge shows support for Soto’s big decision
Judge and Soto formed one of baseball’s most dangerous offensive duos during their brief time together in the Bronx. Their chemistry on the field was undeniable, and off the field, a close friendship blossomed. That bond remains intact, even as they now find themselves on opposite sides of New York’s baseball rivalry.
“It’s definitely personal for the fans, and they can have their opinion,” Judge told NJ.com.
“Soto is a good friend of mine. We built a great relationship when he was here, so I’m always wishing him nothing but the best.”
Judge added that Soto’s decision to join the Mets was personal and should be respected.
“He made the decision he thought was best for him and his family,” Judge said. “Nobody can really say anything about that besides him.”
The Mets lured Soto away from the Yankees with a blockbuster 15-year, $765 million deal-a figure Yankees owner Hal Steinbrenner wasn’t willing to match. While Soto has had a decent start in Queens, slashing .255/.380/.465 with 8 home runs and 20 RBIs in his first 43 games, he has yet to fully meet the sky-high expectations that came with his historic contract.
Now, with the Mets and Yankees both playing strong baseball in 2025, Soto’s first trip back to Yankee Stadium as a Met adds extra drama to the already fiery Subway Series. The Mets sit at 28-16, while the Yankees are close behind at 25-18-setting the stage for an electric showdown in the Bronx.
As Soto prepares for a potentially icy reception, Judge is doing what he does best-carrying the Yankees on his back. The reigning AL MVP is off to another dominant start, batting .412 with 15 home runs and 41 RBIs. He’s leading the league in nearly every major offensive category and once again making a strong case for MVP honors.
With Judge in top form and the Yankees rolling, all eyes will be on Yankee Stadium this weekend. Whether fans cheer or jeer Soto, one thing’s for certain-the Subway Series will deliver the drama baseball fans live for.
And if Judge has his way, the focus will remain on the field-not on old allegiances.
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