Dominican Flavor of New York Gives Yankees Leg Up on Signing Juan Soto as a Free Agent

Juan Soto is perceived to be the Yankees’ magician, and fans expect to see his magic for as long as possible. Ever since the Dominican ace made an entry in the Bombers’ clubhouse, the Yankees’ admirers have been on top of their excitement to encounter the team’s newest addition perform to his best. However, now seemingly, the urge was mutual as the outstanding pitcher recently expressed his excitement about playing for the Yankees.

The 2023 off-season became favorable for the team as they locked their long-pursued free agent, Juan Soto, for one year. However, the deal soon gave the team, as well as the fans, enough reason to frown over it as it ensures Soto’s free agency in the coming year. Now, as the team only has a year to convince the former Padres’ star, it becomes fundamental to discover Soto’s viewpoint on the same.

Juan Soto’s excitement becomes eminent

During a recent interview with The Athletic, the 25-year-old exceptional pitcher expressed his excitement about performing in front of the Yankees’ crowd. When asked about his initial reaction, he excitedly remarked, “it’s always great.” As the interview proceeded further, the Yankees’ newest addition didn’t forget to emphasize his core connection with Dominican citizens and on a similar ground, he demonstrated his excitement about performing in front of the Dominican community in Bronx, stating, “It’s going to be really exciting. It’s going to be unbelievable.”

Juan Soto has been emphasizing his connection with his native country. Thus, coming to the USA gave him a two-way feeling, as remarked by the ace. On the one hand, he was excited about the opportunities provided by his new team, while at the same time, he nurtured a discomfort in leaving his country.

However, given the growing Dominican community in the USA, their “passion could play a crucial role in persuading Soto, a Dominican Republic native, to stay with the Yankees beyond 2024, as he enters the final year of his contract and eyes free agency.”

Moreover, Soto has been focusing on a team with a winning mindset throughout his entire career. In terms of that, his being on the Yankees can match his preference as he stated, “When you hear good things, and they’re trying to win, too, it just feels good,” indicating his preference for a winning team. However, as nothing is officially confirmed by either end, every chance holds its unique significance.

Read More: Juan Soto’s Heart Still in Washington: Worrying Sign for Yankees?

Is it a bond made in heaven?

The Dominican powerhouse depicted extraordinary performance in his debut match as a Yankee. Now, as he seems to be one of the most fitting athletes for the team, his current teammates’ thoughts also convey something similar to this. Talking about the same, the team’s captain Aaron Judge remarked, “the greatest hitter out there,” while addressing Soto.

Coming back to Soto, who is currently aiming to “just get to know the team, get to know the guys,” falls perfectly in place for the Yankees. He finished his 2023 season with a career-high 35 homers, a .930 OPS and a sixth-place finish in the National League MVP race, making perfect ground for him in the Yankees troop, who were searching for a solid helping hand after a demolishing 2023 season.

However, despite all these favorable grounds, fans must not forget that he is a rental athlete for the team as of now, and to get any confirmation about his longer association, fans may need to wait until the current season ends.

Read More: Juan Soto Sets High Bar in Spring With Yankees—2024 Projections Now Sky-High