Juan Soto Blasted by Devastating 8-Word Message From Former Yankees All-Star

Juan Soto, one of Major League Baseball’s most electrifying talents, has recently stirred up controversy with his comments about the New York Mets and Yankees rivalry. After leaving the New York Yankees to sign a massive 15-year, $765 million contract with the Mets, Soto’s actions and words have raised eyebrows. In his introductory press conference, he boldly declared that New York had “been a Mets town for a long time.” This statement didn’t sit well with many, particularly those loyal to the Yankees, and has sparked a chain of responses that are still making waves.

Soto’s Quick Departure and Impressive Performance with the Yankees

Before his controversial statement, Juan Soto played for the New York Yankees for just one season, following two years with the San Diego Padres. Despite his short time in New York, Soto had an incredible impact on the team. He helped propel the Yankees to their first World Series appearance in 15 years. In his lone season at Yankee Stadium, Soto posted a remarkable 7.9 Wins Above Replacement (WAR), the sixth-best in all of baseball. His bat was a force to be reckoned with, contributing 41 home runs and a stellar .989 OPS, which ranked third in the MLB.

Soto’s performance with the Yankees cemented his status as one of the game’s top hitters. His career OPS of .953 ranks third among all active players and 23rd all-time. There is no doubt that Soto is already one of the greatest hitters in baseball history.

A Controversial Statement That Sparked Backlash

Despite his standout performance with the Yankees, Soto seemed eager to distance himself from the team almost immediately after his departure. In his first public comments as a New York Mets player, Soto claimed that New York had long been a Mets town, a statement that didn’t sit well with many, especially the Yankee fans. The comment was seen by many as an unnecessary jab at the Yankees, who had spent decades as the dominant force in New York baseball.

This comment sparked a furious response from former ESPN anchor Rich Eisen, who didn’t mince words during an appearance on the Rich Eisen Show. Eisen, a native New Yorker who has witnessed New York’s sports scene for over 55 years, called Soto out for his lack of perspective on the city’s baseball history.

“What is he talking about?” Eisen questioned. “Juan, I’ve been around New York City for 55 years. He’s been around for the proverbial New York minute. Dude, get out of here. Get out of here with that noise.”

Dellin Betances Responds: “It’s Always Going to Be a Yankees Town”

The saga didn’t end with Eisen’s comments. Dellin Betances, a former New York Yankees All-Star and three-time All-Star relief pitcher, also had strong words for Soto. Betances, who grew up in the Bronx near Yankee Stadium, made it clear that, in his opinion, New York will always be a Yankees town.

“It’s always going to be a Yankees town,” Betances asserted. “I don’t know what he was trying to say by that. I love Juan Soto, but he’s in a situation obviously where I think him going to the Mets, he gets to be the guy.”

Betances’ remarks added fuel to the fire, pointing out that while Soto may be “the guy” with the Mets, the Yankees will always belong to Aaron Judge. Betances emphasized that, despite Soto’s incredible talent, Judge is the true leader in New York, having earned the captaincy with his iconic presence and long history with the Yankees.

Soto, on the other hand, may feel he can take center stage with the Mets, especially given his massive contract. However, Betances noted that Soto’s transition to the Mets will undoubtedly come with added pressure to prove himself.

Soto’s Next Challenge: Proving Himself with the Mets

With 73 days remaining until the MLB Opening Day, Juan Soto will soon be required to back up his words on the field. Soto’s transition to the Mets and his comments about New York will be closely scrutinized, and it remains to be seen if he can live up to the immense expectations that come with his new contract.

As the Mets prepare to enter the new season, all eyes will be on Soto, as he looks to prove himself not only as a top hitter but also as a leader on a team hoping to make a deep run in the playoffs. Soto’s journey with the Mets will likely define his legacy in New York, but one thing is for sure—he will always have his critics, especially from those who bleed Yankee blue.