On Friday morning, WFAN’s frequency experienced an unexpected moment when Brandon Tierney, a well-known New York sports host, cast doubt on Juan Soto’s real age. The Dominican slugger, in his first season with the Mets and already a four-time All-Star, has always maintained that he was born on October 25, 1998.
Soto was signed by the Washington Nationals in July 2015, just a few months before turning 17. According to MLB rules, teams can only sign international players who are at least 16 years old or who turn 16 before September 1 of the signing period. Although his story aligns with the rules, Tierney believes there might be more behind it.
Juan Soto at the center of controversy
On his midday show, Tierney questioned the 15-year, $765 million contract Soto signed, suggesting that his age might not be what’s listed in official records.
“Fifteen years of this? Does he look 26? When you’re 26 you still have a youthful glow… do you see it?” he said on air. “I shouldn’t even start this, it’s going to get me in trouble,” he added with nervous laughter, before clarifying that he didn’t believe Soto was 30, but that he “maybe” could be “close” to that number.
Wave of criticism against Tierney
Tierney’s comments did not go unnoticed. Within hours, social media was flooded with criticism toward the host, accusing him of making baseless remarks and attacking Soto’s image.
During an interaction with a listener, Tierney joked that he’s not “a plastic surgeon or God” to determine a person’s age.
Juan Soto’s current performance
Beyond the controversy, Soto continues to shine on the field. As of Friday’s close, the outfielder was batting .252 with 29 home runs, 69 RBIs, and an OPS of .878. The Mets, with a 64-57 record, currently hold the third and final Wild Card spot in the National League, with Soto as one of their key pieces in the postseason push.
With the season entering a decisive stretch, the off-field controversy may not affect Soto’s focus, as he aims to take New York as far as possible in October.
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