Juan Soto had a strong reason for backing out of ESPN Mic during Subway Series finale

Juan Soto reportedly had a strong reason for rejecting ESPN’s mic’d-up segment during the final game of the Subway Series against the Yankees. On top of that, after the game, he executed a quiet strategy to avoid speaking with reporters who were eager to get his comments.

According to Bob Klapisch of NJ.com, Soto had initially agreed to wear a mic for ESPN in the second inning but changed his mind shortly before first pitch because he was tired of answering repeated questions about why he chose the Mets over the Yankees.

“He’d agreed to be miked up by ESPN in the second inning but changed his mind minutes before the game. Soto told Mets officials he was tired of answering questions about Yankees captain Aaron Judge and sick of explaining why he chose the Mets,” Klapisch wrote.

Soto Also Avoided Reporters

Game 3 ended in a decisive Yankees win, and while Soto had previously said he was ready to handle the pressure like a professional, this time he chose not to face the media at all. After the loss, he avoided reporters by using a simple exit strategy.

NEW YORK, NEW YORK – MAY 16: Juan Soto #22 of the New York Mets is walked during the first inning against the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium on May 16, 2025 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

“Just as Soto turned his back on ESPN, he did the same to reporters who were waiting to speak to him in the post-game clubhouse. Soto got dressed and began walking towards the door. He told a Mets official he’d be back to answer questions after seeing family members outside,” Klapisch added.

Yankees Silenced Soto

The pressure didn’t just come from the stands — where Bleacher Creatures turned their backs on him in the outfield — but also from the Yankees’ pitching staff. Soto was held to a .100 batting average during the Subway Series, with only one hit, two runs, and three consecutive strikeouts.