After spending big money on Aaron Judge, the Yankees are still hoping to sign slugger Juan Soto to a hefty long-term contract as soon as feasible. However, Soto is not in a hurry, according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post:
“The organizational backing to keep Soto may be even stronger (Brian Cashman and Co. traded five pitchers for him). However, the stakes are higher since Soto, who is five years younger than Judge, is expected to demand $500 million or more, possibly $600 million.
Soto’s predicted reluctance to negotiate in-season originates from a desire not to distract from the season (and, of course, the ability to choose). Let’s face it: no talent of his quality signs months before free agency.
If Soto re-signed with the Yankees, Judge would play an important role in the reunion.
Before games, Soto and Judge frequently gather together to prepare their attack against the opposing pitcher. The former feels the kind greeting he received made him feel more at ease with the Yankees.
“He definitely tries to help me out,” Soto stated about Judge. “He’s someone you can talk to and have fun with throughout the game. It’s been enjoyable thus far. It’s been excellent for us.”
“He started talking with me to let me know how happy they are,” Soto said of Judge and New York’s response to his initial deal. “That’s one thing that reveals who he is. We’ve had him, Gerrit Cole, and all of those men texting me. That certainly demonstrates how much they care about me.
In turn, Judge has enjoyed having Soto around in the clubhouse. He doesn’t mind sharing any of his star power if it helps the Yankees succeed.
Aaron Judge responds to booing fans amid losing stretch
After going 50-22 to start the season, the Yankees are only 6-16, and supporters of the Bronx Bombers are losing patience.
The judge has heard the noise. Judge addressed the boos during his appearance on the Casa De Klub podcast.
The Yankees star explained, “You don’t like hearing it. It stings, but I wouldn’t have it any other way, guy. I’d rather be booed in New York for failing to complete my responsibilities. I’m meant to be there in the midst of the lineup, producing and doing my thing.
If I am not, please let me know. I’d rather have it than be in another place where the supporters are only…They’re clapping as I fly out for the fourth time…I grounded into a double play, and they said, ‘It’s okay, you’ll get it next time.’ Man, that is not why we play; you want to win. It’s a high standard, and we have high standards for ourselves, but the fans remind you that we have a high standard here in Pinstripes, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Aaron Judge is leading the league in home runs (32) and RBIs (83) while hitting.307, so fans have little reason to criticize him. However, the failing Yankees tell a different narrative.
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