As the 2024 MLB All-Star Game approaches, media interactions with players are in full swing. During one such session, New York Yankees star Aaron Judge addressed questions about his teammate Juan Soto’s impending free agency.
Judge expressed his efforts to persuade Soto to stay with the Yankees long-term, while also acknowledging that the ultimate decision lies with Soto and his family.
Judge emphasized the importance of being supportive and showcasing what New York can offer.
“That decision’s all based on him and his family and what they want to do and what feels right,” Judge said via Yankees Videos on X.
“As a teammate, it’s just about being supportive and showing him what New York can offer. The fans have definitely shown him a lot of love, shown him what he means to this city. I wish him nothing but the best. He’s going to make the right decision for what’s best for him, and we’d definitely love to have him in New York for a long time, but it’s ultimately up to him to make that choice.”
The Yankees acquired Soto from the San Diego Padres last offseason, fully aware he would be a free agent after the 2024 season. The hope was to create a formidable lineup featuring both Judge and Soto. Despite some struggles, the duo has shown its potential this season.
Both players will be prominently featured in the All-Star Game, batting third and fourth for the American League. Following the All-Star festivities, the Yankees will face the Tampa Bay Rays in a four-game series starting Friday.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Yankees are evaluating their needs. While they have improved their bullpen recently, it remains a target area. Additionally, the emergence of rookie first baseman Ben Rice has lessened the urgency to add a corner infielder, though acquiring a third baseman or second baseman is still a possibility.
Currently, the Yankees are one game behind the Baltimore Orioles in the American League East. With a favorable schedule ahead, the Yankees aim to strengthen their roster to not only compete for the division title but also make a deep playoff run.
