Soto’s Return: Yankees vs. Mets, A Rivalry Classic
This year’s Subway Series promises strong emotions. The rivalry between the Yankees and Mets intensifies with the return of Juan Soto to Yankee Stadium, now defending the colors of the rival team.
This weekend marks the beginning of a new edition of this historic confrontation. Both teams arrive as divisional leaders, fueling the hope of a possible Subway World Series, an event that hasn’t been seen in 25 years.
The central figure is, without a doubt, Juan Soto.
The Most Anticipated Return
Soto, who was key in leading the Yankees to the World Series last year, signed a historic contract with the Mets for 765 million dollars. Although the Yankees offered a similar sum, the Dominican outfielder chose to change teams, a decision that has not been well received in the Bronx.
In 2024, Soto and Aaron Judge formed the third duo in Yankees history to hit 40 home runs each, emulating legends like Babe Ruth and Lou Gehrig, and Roger Maris and Mickey Mantle.
Now, Soto returns to Yankee Stadium as a rival, playing in right field for the Mets. A loud and divided welcome is expected.
“We just want to win the series”
Juan Soto
Soto has had a start of the season with the Mets, batting .255, with 8 home runs and 20 RBIs. Meanwhile, Aaron Judge, his former teammate, has had a historic start, with a .412 average and 15 home runs through mid-May.
Trent Grisham, who arrived alongside Soto from the Padres, has excelled with 12 home runs, 22 RBIs, and a .283 average, surpassing Soto’s production.
“I love the way [Grisham] is playing in every aspect”
Aaron Boone
Beyond the spectacle, the Mets have shown consistency at the start of the season, with Soto in the second spot in the lineup. Although his numbers are not MVP-worthy, his presence has elevated the team’s competitive and media profile.
With Yankee Stadium as the setting, the atmosphere promises to be electric and memorable. Although Soto insists that it’s “just another series”, for New York and the history of baseball, it won’t be.
