Aaron Judge is off to a strong start in his first two games with the New York Yankees, recently helping the team achieve a historic MLB record alongside both familiar faces and new teammates. When it comes to the absence of Juan Soto, who is no longer with the club, Judge made it clear that his presence is no longer as crucial.
After the Yankees’ game against the Brewers—where Judge hit his first grand slam of the season—he spoke with SNY and YES reporters and was asked whether Soto’s departure was a major loss. Judge acknowledged Soto’s unique talent but emphasized that the team has successfully addressed any gaps left by his exit to the Mets.
“Nobody can replace Soto. He’s one of a kind, but I think with the guys we added, we were able to fill some holes that we probably had last year.”
Judge also pointed out that the Yankees now have more depth, thanks to new additions like Paul Goldschmidt and the development of returning players such as Austin Wells and Anthony Volpe, who have made significant strides.
Aaron Judge #99 of the New York Yankees is congratulated by Juan Soto #22 after hitting a two-run home run during the first inning of Game Five of the 2024 World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Yankee Stadium on October 30, 2024 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
What did the Yankees lose with Soto’s departure?
In the 2024 season, Juan Soto delivered an impressive output for the Yankees, producing 128 runs—a personal record for the Dominican star. Over 157 games with the club, he also recorded 41 home runs, making him the second-leading power hitter on the team behind Judge, who hit 58 last year.
Another aspect the Yankees might miss is Soto’s consistent batting. He posted the second-highest batting average on the team with .288, ahead of Chisholm Jr. and Jon Berti, who each had .273. Overall, he was a moderately valuable player at the plate, boasting the second-best OBP (.419), drawing 129 walks, and contributing 109 RBIs.
SurveyIs Judge right in saying the Yankees will never need Soto again?
Is Judge right in saying the Yankees will never need Soto again?
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