The Los Angeles Dodgers’ World Series win over the New York Yankees in Game 5 sent shockwaves throughout the baseball world, but none more so than Juan Soto’s decision to join the rival New York Mets. The move came with a whopping $765 million contract, making him the richest professional athlete in North America.
Soto had been traded from the San Diego Padres and Washington Nationals to the Yankees ahead of his walk year, but he never quite fit in. In 2024, he was 80% better than average at the plate, leading the American League in runs scored. However, despite his impressive performance, Soto’s reception by Yankees fans has been nothing short of hostile.
On Friday night, Soto made his highly anticipated return to Yankee Stadium as a Met, and the crowd’s response was immediate. Fans booed him at every at-bat, and even tossed profanity-laced abuse when he ran out of right field. The hostility towards Soto, who had been trading in his No. 22 Yankees jersey for a Mets one just days earlier, left no doubt that Mets fans dominated the crowd.
The reason behind Soto’s rejection of the Yankees’ offer was reportedly worth less than $5 million, a stark contrast to the $765 million he’ll earn with the Mets. While this might seem like a small price difference, it highlights the significance of Soto’s move.
In a shocking twist, the Yankees have adapted by shelling out for a slew of additions to their roster, including lefty pitcher Max Fried and closer Devin Williams. The team’s new general manager, David Stearns, has emphasized a philosophy that prioritizes splurging on position players while finding value in pitching on the margins.
The Subway Series between the Mets and Yankees is shaping up to be one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the season, with both teams vying for first place in their respective divisions. The rivalry has taken on a new dynamic, as Soto’s presence adds an extra layer of tension to the already intense competition.
Soto himself seemed unfazed by the hostile reception he received from the crowd. “I was ready for it,” he said after the game. If his new union with the Mets works out, the Yankees will be the last team Soto leaves on bad terms, adding an extra layer of complexity to this already compelling rivalry.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/may/17/juan-soto-yankee-stadium-return-mets-yankees