Aaron Judge has broken his silence on Juan Soto’s blockbuster move to the New York Mets, a decision that sent shockwaves through Major League Baseball.
After a season in which the two sluggers helped power the Yankees to the World Series, Soto opted for free agency and landed one of the richest contracts in sports history, a 15-year and $765 million deal with the Mets.
Aaron Judge focused on Yankees’ pursuit of glory
Judge, speaking as he reported for spring training with the Yankees, acknowledged the magnitude of Soto’s decision.
“He got a pretty nice deal over there,”Judge said with a smile.
“You can’t say no to that.”
However, when asked about Soto’s belief that the Mets offer a stronger championship opportunity, Judge’s tone shifted.
“That’s his opinion, he can say what he wants,” Judge responded.
“I definitely disagree with him.”
Despite parting ways, Judge expressed no hard feelings toward Soto, recognizing that the move was likely the best fit for his former teammate.
“I wasn’t too surprised by it,” he admitted.
“I think that is where he wanted to be. I think that is what’s best for him and his family. I’m happy for him. He’s going to be in a great spot. It’s going to be great having him in town, we are going to be battling back and forth for quite a few years. I’m definitely happy for him.”
Life without Soto in the Yankees’ lineup
Soto’s departure leaves a noticeable gap in the Yankees’ batting order, one that could force Judge to shift from his preferred third spot to second in the lineup.
“I’d love to hit third again, I’ve told [manager Aaron Boone] that since the first day, but I’ve always been about wherever you need me,”Judge said.
“Hitting second, hitting last, I’ll be anywhere that shapes this lineup the way we need to.”
The Yankees have been active in retooling their roster, bringing in key additions such as Paul Goldschmidt, Cody Bellinger, and pitchers Max Fried and Devin Williams.
Meanwhile, young outfielder Jasson Domínguez is expected to play a major role after recovering from injury.
“I’m excited to watch Jasson Domínguez have a full, healthy year,”Judge said.
One concern for the Yankees is designated hitter Giancarlo Stanton, who is dealing with ongoing pain from tennis elbow.
His availability for Opening Day remains uncertain.
The Yankees will begin their 2025 season on March 27 at home against the Milwaukee Brewers.
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