New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone quickly reacted before the Yankeesâ 6-3 win in Game 2 of the ALCS during the 2024 MLB Playoffs to the nomination of star player Juan Soto for the American League Gold Glove Award. The Yankees have three finalists for the award: Anthony Volpe, Alex Verdugo, and Juan Soto.
Volpe won the award last year as a rookie, while Verdugo has established himself as an outstanding defender for the Yankees. Juan Sotoâs inclusion on the shortlist was notable, as he is primarily known for his offense. However, he has demonstrated solid defensive skills this season, recording a significant number of assists.
Aaron Boone praised Sotoâs defensive performance and dedication, especially following the Yankeesâ win in Game 2 of the ALCS. Boone highlighted that Soto has improved his defense throughout the season and has made key plays in the field.
âIâm not surprised,â Boone said before the Game 2. âBecause I vote on thatâyou canât vote for your own guysâbut we get that [ballot] two or three weeks ago, it pops on your desk. They give you numbers in there to reference. He was up there, I noticed, on all the right-field stuff in a lot of areas. Plus, heâs had a ton of assists out there.â
Juan Soto #22 of the New York Yankees reacts against the Cleveland Guardians in Game Two of the Championship Series at Yankee Stadium on October 15, 2024 in the Bronx borough of New York City. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
âHappy for those guys,â Boone added. âHappy that theyâre getting acknowledged for the work that theyâve put in and the pride that they take on that side of the ball. Thereâs probably another guy or two that were close to being in those finalist situations. Just a well-deserved honor for them.â
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