Aaron Judge and Juan Soto created one of baseball’s most formidable offenses while playing together for the New York Yankees during the 2024 season. Combined, they hit 99 home runs, a significant factor in leading the Yankees to the American League East title and their first World Series appearance since 2009.
Despite their success, the Yankees were ultimately defeated by the Los Angeles Dodgers in the Fall Classic, ending the season on a disappointing note.
Judge Shares Thoughtful Advice for Soto’s Free Agency Journey
As Juan Soto approached one of the most pivotal free agency periods of his career, Aaron Judge was asked to offer guidance to his teammate and friend. Judge encouraged Soto to appreciate the experience rather than feel pressured by it, emphasizing the rarity of such opportunities.
“[I’d advise Soto to] Just enjoy the process, you know. Very few times in your career do you get to pick where you want to go. A guy like that, he’s going to have every single team that can afford him calling his phone.” Judge said [3:48], via YES Network in October 2024.
“Just enjoy the process, talk it over with your family and friends, pray about it. Most importantly, just enjoy it, it doesn’t happen too many times in your career.” Judge added
Soto’s Transition to the Mets and Renewed Rivalry with Judge
Juan Soto signed a record-breaking $765 million contract with the New York Mets, making him a prominent figure in the free agency market and a rival for the Yankees’ fan base. His arrival at Citi Field was met with high expectations, although his early performances showed mixed results, particularly during the first Subway Series at Yankee Stadium where the Yankees won two of three games.
Over time, however, Soto has demonstrated his ability to influence games positively, playing a vital role in the Mets’ success during the subsequent Subway Series in July.
Both Soto and Judge remain central to their respective teams’ ambitions as they vie for division titles and aim to make a mark in the postseason.
The Ongoing Significance of Their Careers and Future Prospects
The advice Aaron Judge offered to Juan Soto highlights the unique nature of free agency moments in professional sports. Their performances have not only shaped this season’s outcomes but will also influence the trajectory of both players’ careers in the years ahead. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely as these two stars continue to impact Major League Baseball’s competitive landscape.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why is Aaron Judge so special?
A. Aaron Judge is famous for hitting home runs. He is one of only five players with three seasons hitting at least 50 homers.
Q. How old was Aaron Judge adopted?
A. Aaron Judge was adopted by teachers Patty and Wayne Judge on April 27, 1992, just a day after he was born. At about 10 years old, he noticed he looked different from them and understood he was adopted.
Q. What is so special about Aaron Judge?
A. Aaron James Judge, born on April 26, 1992, plays as an outfielder for the New York Yankees in Major League Baseball (MLB). He has been named an MLB All-Star seven times and has won the American League Most Valuable Player Award twice. Judge set the American League record for the most home runs in one season with 62.
Q. Can Aaron Judge grow a beard?
A. Aaron Judge stated that he won’t grow a beard, even though the Yankees have updated their rules about facial hair.