Remember when Juan Soto showed up to his introductory press conference at Citi Field after inking his 15-year deal with the Mets? On him was a flashy gold chain with the No. 22 engraved on it. Little did people know back then what the double digits meant – how significant they would be. Keeping that eye-watering $764 million deal together was a small but crucial request from the Dominican outfielder: he wanted to keep wearing No. 22. Why, you wonder? That number has been his signature since his debut – a powerful symbol of his journey to the big leagues. However, there was just one little problem before the Mets could come through on his request.

The Mets’ third baseman Brett Baty already had #22. But instead of making a fuss, Baty willingly gave up the number, allowing Soto to continue his tradition. The promising young infielder has worn the number throughout the three years of his pro career. But for him, the choice was an easy one; for him, it was “just a number.” And while players often offer something in return for a jersey number, Mr. Juan-derful took it to another level. Clearly, Juan Soto isn’t just bringing his MVP-caliber bat to Queens—he’s also bringing his generous spirit.

The New York Post posted a video on Thursday showing Baty stepping outside and being greeted by Soto in his full home uniform, where a brand-new black Chevy Tahoe, complete with a giant red bow, awaited him. The rear windshield carried a handwritten message: “Thanks for #22.” Baty couldn’t believe it. “No, you didn’t,” he exclaimed as he approached the car, before embracing Juan Soto. As it turns out, Baty had been driving the same car since high school – a battered 2016 Toyota 4 Runner with over 150,000 miles on it already – and was planning an upgrade.

“I wanted to give you something nice,” Soto responded with a grin as he handed over the keys. A Chevy Tahoe isn’t a small token of appreciation. Depending on the model, the luxury SUV runs anywhere from $92,000 to $97,000. But for Soto, it was about more than just money – it was about respect and gratitude. Beyond that, it was about finding his feet in a new home.

During same introductory press conference at Citi Field in December, Juan Soto explained the deep connection he has with No. 22. It was the number he wore when he first reached the majors. He recalled the feeling of thrill when the Nationals assigned it to him – the first promise that he was making his way. Ever since, he has cherished it. For him, the number represents his journey. Its a badge of identity and he’s proud to continue wearing it.

While some players are merely superstitious about numbers, for Soto, his teammate’s goodwill gesture shows how well he’s settling into the team that has towering expectations from him. Baty, on the other hand, drives away with a brand-new ride and a great story to tell. Not a bad trade-off! But the No. 22 has its own special story with the Mets.

Will Juan Soto tap the power of jersey #22?

Jersey numbers in sports often hold deep personal meaning for players as they connect them to their experiences or idols and significant moments in their careers. Some may select numbers that were worn by their childhood heroes or those assigned to them in their early careers. Over time a player’s jersey number can become closely associated with their legacy, giving them a brand and identity on and off the field. But sometimes, the number transcends the player to become part of the team’s lore.

While Juan Soto has his legend with the #22, the Mets have their own parallel storyline as well. The New York based outfit win their only two World Series titles in 1986 and 1969. The first time around, Ray Knight’s combined 5-for-8 with one homer and three RBIs in Games 6 and 7 against the Boston Red Sox were crucial hits. The second time, Donn Clendenon’s three home runs, 4 RBI and .357 batting average led the ‘Miracle Mets’ to a historic upset over the Baltimore Orioles – the first World Series win of the divisional era. And there’s the clutch…

Both the players were intrinsic to the victories. Both donned the #22 jersey. Both won the series MVP. Now if that isn’t lore worth parroting, what is? With Juan Soto reigniting the possibilities for the Mets this season, the chances that the good luck of yore will rub off on him are high. His eerie tryst with destiny has landed him here… maybe the baseball gods do have something up their sleeves. At the very least, this is one more way Juan Soto’s found himself among sporting legends.