Starting on Friday, the New York Mets will play three games in the Bronx against the New York Yankees. There is a certain amount of hostility in every Subway Series, but this one will be unique. Juan Soto received a record contract with the Mets this summer after having a great season with the Yankees the previous season. He is aware that the Bronx fans will never forget that decision. Before leaving for Yankee Stadium, he chatted with New York Post reporter Jon Heyman.
“It’s going to be 50,000 against one,” Soto said Heyman, according ESPN. You know, they’re going to attempt to get on me. It’s a component of it. They have the right to do anything they choose.
This summer, the Yankees and the Mets engaged in a bidding war for Soto, which Steve Cohen ultimately won with a $765 million deal. Hal Steinbrenner’s offer of $760 million over 16 years was rejected in favor of $765 million over 15 years. After a sluggish start as he adapted to a new squad and arena, Soto has recently taken off.
The short right-field porch at Yankee Stadium was a perfect fit for Soto’s swing. In fact, his 1.017 OPS on the road was higher than his.960 OPS in 77 games played in the Bronx last season. However, the Yankees and their supporters are aware of the challenges they face in Soto.
The Yankees will start their top two pitchers in this matchup. Before a disappointing performance against the Athletics, Carlos Rodon had put together four consecutive excellent starts. On Friday, however, he has every chance to win over the Yankee supporters. On Sunday, AL Cy Young leader Max Fried will compete in an attempt to build on his strong start.
Soto’s decision to choose Queens over the Bronx will be made public by Yankees fans on Friday. With another Yankee Stadium home run, the Mets’ new star would love to silence them.
