When the New York Yankees entered this offseason, their future was full of question marks. It was a disappointing year, coupled with an underperforming team on an extremely high payroll. Experts wondered if the Yankees could even manage to correct their course in just one winter. Those worries were a little unfounded as the blockbuster trade of Juan Soto has turned the tide for the Bronx Bombers. Suddenly the vibes have transformed from hopeless to promising.

The team has the talent to rise again but it doesn’t mean anything if it fails in time of need. And that was probably the reason why their odds of winning were drastically down at the start of this offseason. But that trend seems to have not only reversed, it has done so phenomenally.

Juan Soto trade turns Yankees into AL favorites

After coming off a 99-win season in 2022, hopes were high that they would grow even stronger last season. Things started off well with Aaron Judge continuing his 2022 AL MVP form and was on pace to at least touch his home run record when tragedy struck. He got injured and suddenly the Yankees lost their glory and missed the playoffs.

Negativity gripped the Yankees Nation; the pessimism spread even to experts. The 27-time winners were far from being favorites for the 2024 World Series. Changes had to be made and they have not disappointed so far with them going ahead and getting their no.1 target – Juan Soto.

Just the thought of Soto in pinstripes seems to have done the trick. According to FOX, the odds of the Yankees winning the World Series were +1400 before the Soto trade. Now they have climbed up to +800, becoming the third-most favored team to win the next Fall Classic. 

Read more: Injured 10 Times Since 2019, Everything to Know About Juan Soto’s Concerning Medical History

Now this can be taken with a pinch of salt as it’s only December, but it does show the impact of Soto. His mere presence has increased the Bronx’s odds by 600 points. But what’s more interesting is how the rest of the league has ranked.

Yankees are favored to win the AL while the Dodgers top for World Series

The LA Dodgers and Atlanta Braves with +700 are at the top of the World Series stakes. It’s understandable as both of these teams are a near-constant presence in the postseason. Coupled with the Dodgers potentially getting Shohei Ohtani, they are well set for a glorious run.

The Yankees are on top when it comes to the AL pennant. They’ve climbed from third to now first with +400 odds. Juan Soto has certainly given them a new breath of life. 

Will these numbers reflect on the field? The Yankees sure hope they do.

Watch This Story: ESPN Insider Drops Bold Juan Soto Predictions: Fans Eagerly Shout ‘Yankee’ With 100% Confidence.