TAMPA, Fla. — Aaron Judge has voiced his disagreement with Juan Soto’s assertion that the New York Mets have a stronger chance of clinching World Series titles compared to the Yankees. Soto, who opted to depart from the Yankees as a free agent in December, signed a historic 15-year, $765 million contract with the Mets, turning down the Yankees’ offer of $760 million over 16 years.
“That’s his opinion, and he can say what he feels, but I certainly don’t share that view,” Judge, who serves as captain for the Yankees, remarked on Monday following his team’s first full-squad training session of the year. He acknowledged that having Soto in the same city would create a competitive dynamic for the coming years. “It’s going to be exciting to compete against him.”
Judge, who batted third last year behind Soto, has previously praised him as “one of a kind” and a “special player.” Unfortunately, the two could not communicate directly after Soto changed his phone number following his decision. Judge expressed he wasn’t entirely surprised by Soto’s choice, believing it was the best fit for him and his family. “He received quite an impressive deal with the Mets,” Judge noted. “It’s hard to turn down that kind of opportunity. I’m genuinely happy for him.”
As Judge approaches his 33rd birthday on April 26, he reflects on his second AL MVP award earned in the past three seasons. He dominated the league last year with 58 home runs, 144 RBIs, and 133 walks, all while hitting .322 as the Yankees reached the World Series for the first time since 2009, only to be defeated by the Los Angeles Dodgers in five games.
“Reaching the World Series and then falling short is definitely more disappointing than not getting there at all,” Judge acknowledged. “Our team is eager and motivated to start the new season.”
In Game 5 of the World Series, Judge made an error by dropping a routine fly ball off Tommy Edman, which contributed to the Yankees squandering a 5-0 lead, ultimately losing 7-6. Dodgers pitcher Joe Kelly mentioned that the team had anticipated mistakes in Yankees’ defense. Judge responded to those remarks by emphasizing that winning is what matters most. “They came out on top, so no matter what they say, we need to improve and play better,” he stated.
With the offseason acquisition of Cody Bellinger from the Chicago Cubs, Judge is expected to transition primarily to right field, a shift from his usual center field position last season.
Additionally, Judge’s motivation has increased with the arrival of his daughter, Nora Rose Judge, born on January 27. “Having her watch me pursue my passion is exciting, and if I can inspire her in any way through my career, that would be incredible,” Judge remarked. “As I get older, I don’t want to be perceived as the veteran too soon, so I have to maintain my performance level. She will certainly keep me inspired and on my toes in the years to come.”
On another note, rookie Jasson Domínguez finds himself positioned between Judge and Bellinger’s lockers. “It was a bit surprising to me,” the 22-year-old player admitted. “However, it’s an opportunity to learn from two great players.”
Domínguez faced challenges last season during his brief appearances with the Yankees, having returned late from Tommy John surgery. Prior to joining the major league camp, he focused on refining his defensive skills in left field at the minor league complex. “While I feel the pressure, it also serves as motivation to elevate my game and meet everyone’s expectations,” Domínguez stated.
As a switch-hitter, Domínguez struggled last season with a batting average of .109 from the right side and .216 from the left. He made progress during batting practice, hitting a home run off left-hander Carlos Rodón on Monday. Manager Aaron Boone commented on his potential, saying, “Though he’s young and less experienced now, I believe in time, he’s going to make a real impact at the plate, from both sides.”
