Juan Soto is bracing for a chilly welcome when he returns to Yankee Stadium on Friday night. The outfielder left the New York Yankees six weeks after their World Series loss to sign with the New York Mets on a record-setting 15-year, $765 million contract.
Soto knows that fans won’t be friendly. "It’s going to be 50,000 against one," he told The Post. "They’re going to try to get on me, you know. It’s part of it." He acknowledged that fans have a right to express themselves.
Background on Negotiations
The Yankees were reportedly in talks with Soto before his departure but ultimately couldn’t agree on contract length and other issues. Sources close to negotiations say concerns over Aaron Judge’s playing schedule and third base coach Carlos Mendoza’s role were not discussed before talks broke down last October.
According to multiple people familiar with discussions between general managers Brian Cashman and Billy Eppler, differences over contract length were insurmountable obstacles in negotiations. Both sides agree that their dealings ended amicably enough despite knowing early on that an agreement was unlikely, largely due to changes since July when Epstein reportedly reached out initially via text message asking if Cashman wanted to discuss extension possibilities prior to the trade deadline.
Upcoming Series
Soto is prepared for whatever reaction comes his way at Yankee Stadium this week as his Mets face off against division leaders Yankees in a three-game series opener.
"I’m not worried about it," Soto said during an interview at Citi Field earlier this month while discussing the upcoming series against the Bronx Bombers, who are currently atop Major League Baseball standings as they head into the All-Star break next week. The Yankees have won 10 of their last 11 games, including two victories over the Atlanta Braves, who are tied for second place overall.
In contrast, the Mets are coming off a disappointing loss Wednesday night, which snapped a five-game winning streak. They remain within striking distance of first-place Yankees, albeit seven games back. However, given recent form, both teams look poised to take things further, especially considering how well each has performed recently.
Anticipation for the Matchup
For now, the focus remains squarely on the upcoming matchup between these two powerhouses on Friday evening at Yankee Stadium, where emotions will undoubtedly run high, especially given the circumstances surrounding Juan Soto’s return after leaving the Yankees via free agency to sign a massive deal with the rival Mets.
As always, expect an intense, action-packed contest filled with drama, excitement, and anticipation, creating an unforgettable experience for everyone involved—whether you’re watching live, attending the game, or simply tuning into the broadcast from the comfort of your own home.
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