When the offseason started, the New York Yankees GM Brian Cashman had one mission: Strengthen the outfield. As the offseason went on, Cashman didn’t just do that but did it in the most tremendous way possible by trading Juan Soto! With Soto in the Bronx, every fan is wondering how the Childish Bambino fits into the Pinstripes.
But looks like it wasn’t just the fans who have thought about it. The legendary broadcaster Bob Costas too recently shared his thoughts about how he felt Soto would benefit the Yankees.
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Juan Soto and the New York Yankees could be an explosive pair
The Yankees’ interest in Soto was never hidden. After a long pursuit that included quite a few twists and turns, the Yankees finally traded for Soto. But now that he is with the Yankees, a question has emerged – exactly how will the Yankees and Soto benefit each other? Hall of Fame Broadcaster Bob Costas tried to answer this question in his interview with the New York Post.
Costas said, “Your first thought is he ought to be good for 40 home runs. If they continue to build a lineup that protects the hitters, I imagine that Soto who gets on base a lot, would bat ahead of [Aaron] Judge.” Costas continued, “If he continues to walk at the rate he walks, that helps Judge. If they have to pitch to him because Judge is waiting behind him, that helps Soto.”
This is something that many experts have said before. Yankee Stadium favors lefties, and as a result, Soto’s home run record should improve a lot here. At the same time, his presence will support the Bronx captain Aaron Judge. As Costas explained, Soto will bat ahead of Judge. If Soto gets a walk, it will benefit Judge as he will have one base already filled.
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At the same time, if the pitcher tries to strike Soto out, it will benefit Soto who will take risks knowing that Judge is there to cover for him. All in all, it seems like a win-win situation for the Yankees. But as it stands, it’s not hitting that has been a question, it’s the defensive positions of Soto and Judge.
Aaron Judge’s potential shift to centerfield raises questions
Aaron Judge’s injury list is growing rather rapidly and at 31, his physical peak is nearing its end. At this age to shift from a relatively less demanding right field to the most demanding position in the outfield seems like a risky move. Especially because the last time Judge got injured, the entire Yankees lineup collapsed.
However, with the presence of Soto, a complete collapse doesn’t seem possible but the risks involved are still high. Especially if one wonders whether the Yankees will be able to extend Soto’s contract or not. If they do, will Judge permanently shift to the center field?
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Arunima Bhanot