MLB

MLB News: Juan Soto makes bold statement about New York that could ignite Yankees fans

Former Yankees player Juan Soto may have stirred controversy among the team's fan base with recent comments favoring his new team, the Mets.

Juan Soto #22 of the New York Yankees celebrates in the locker room after beating the Cleveland Guardians 5-2 in 10 innings in Game Five of the American League Championship Series at Progressive Field on October 19, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.
Ā© Getty ImagesJuan Soto #22 of the New York Yankees celebrates in the locker room after beating the Cleveland Guardians 5-2 in 10 innings in Game Five of the American League Championship Series at Progressive Field on October 19, 2024 in Cleveland, Ohio.

Juan Soto and the New York Yankees have been separated since the end of the 2024 season. Now, with the Dominican star signing a historic 15-year deal with the New York Yankeesā€˜ biggest rival, the Mets, the divide couldn’t be wider. Adding fuel to the rivalry, Soto made a statement that appeared to take a subtle jab at the Yankees and their fan base.

When asked if his arrival in Queens makes New York City a ā€œMets town,ā€ Soto responded confidently, ā€œIt’s been a Mets town for a long time.ā€ He elaborated, saying the Mets only need to improve their performance to solidify that status: ā€œI think we just gotta bring it to the top.ā€

Soto, valued at $765 million, also noted that winning a World Series would ultimately determine which team the city truly belongs to: ā€œChampionships are gonna tell you if it’s a Yankees or a Mets town at the end of the day.ā€

Advertisement

The Mets haven’t won a World Series since 1986, while Soto has championship experience, having won with the Washington Nationals in 2019. His arrival brings a proven track record to a franchise eager for success on baseball’s biggest stage.

Juan Soto in 2024

New York Yankees outfielder Juan Soto (22) during the game between the Milwaukee Brewers and the New York Yankees in 2024.

Advertisement

Yankees’ recent history in the World Series

As for the Yankees, their last World Series title came in 2009—one of only two championships in the 21st century, the other being in 2000. Despite their struggles in recent years, they’ve maintained dominance in the AL East, claiming 13 division titles over the past 24 years.

How many World Series does the Mets have?

In contrast, the Mets have just two World Series titles (1969 and 1986) but have recently relied on Wild Card berths to reach the postseason in 2022 and 2024. Founded in 1962, the Mets are a younger franchise compared to the Yankees, who have been competing since 1903.

Advertisement
ALSO READ
Williams reportedly drew multiple offers before finalizing three-year deal with NY Mets
MLB

Williams reportedly drew multiple offers before finalizing three-year deal with NY Mets

NY Mets reportedly weigh bold bullpen strategy with DĆ­az after Williams signing
MLB

NY Mets reportedly weigh bold bullpen strategy with DĆ­az after Williams signing

Andy Martino hints which star the Mets truly prefer between Cody Bellinger and Kyle Tucker
MLB

Andy Martino hints which star the Mets truly prefer between Cody Bellinger and Kyle Tucker

NY Mets' Soto, Lindor reportedly experienced ā€˜chilly’ locker‑room dynamic during 2025 MLB season
MLB

NY Mets' Soto, Lindor reportedly experienced ā€˜chilly’ locker‑room dynamic during 2025 MLB season

Better Collective Logo