Judge Challenges Soto’s Claim About Mets’ Championship Potential

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Aaron Judge has voiced his disagreement with former teammate Juan Soto‘s assertion that the New York Mets offer a better chance at winning World Series titles than the New York Yankees. This comment emerged shortly after Soto signed a lucrative 15-year, $765 million contract with the Mets, reportedly turning down a 16-year, $760 million offer from the Yankees.

“That’s his opinion. He can say what he wants. I definitely disagree with him,” Judge stated on February 17 during a media session after the Yankees’ first full-squad workout. “He’s going to be in a great spot. It’s going to be great having him in the town. We’re going to be battling back and forth for quite a few years.”

Judge, who had a stellar performance last season, hit .322 with 58 homers and collected 144 RBIs, expressed support for Soto but emphasized his differing perspective. He remarked on the importance of Soto’s decision for both his career and family. “I think that’s where he wanted to be. I think that’s where is best for him and his family,” Judge added, acknowledging the impressive financial package Soto secured.

The Yankees recently appeared in the World Series for the first time since 2009, but fell short against the Los Angeles Dodgers, a loss that came after a promising playoff run. Judge reflects on that loss with motivation for the upcoming season: “Getting to the dance and then losing out on it definitely is a lot worse than not even getting in. So guys are motivated. Guys are ready to go.”

In Game 5 of the World Series, Judge’s defensive error contributed to the Yankees squandering a 5-0 lead, resulting in a devastating 7-6 elimination. Despite this, Judge remains focused on improving with his teammates, discussing changes in team dynamics after offseason trades and acquisitions.

“They are going to add such a different dynamic to this team. It really lengthens out our whole lineup,” said Judge about the new players including Cody Bellinger and Max Fried. “You can’t replace a guy like Juan Soto, but you bring in guys like this that are All-Stars, MVP-caliber players – we did a pretty good job.”

As Judge prepares for his 33rd birthday and a new season, he is also embracing personal changes at home with the recent birth of his daughter, Nora Rose. “Having the chance to have her grow up and watch me do what I love, if there’s any way I can inspire her through playing this game to do something special, that’s gonna be pretty cool,” Judge said, summarizing his motivation going forward.

New Yankees rookie Jasson Domínguez acknowledged the excitement and pressure of playing alongside veterans like Judge and Bellinger, indicating he sees it as an opportunity to learn and grow. “The pressure is there, but I feel like it’s a good thing to have,” said Domínguez, who is looking to rise above early career challenges.

The New York Mets and Yankees rivalry will take center stage when Soto returns to Yankee Stadium on May 16. Judge anticipates the matchup may spark further competitiveness between both teams as they navigate their contrasting strategies for success in 2025.