New York Yankees outfielder Aaron Judge offered encouragement to struggling Mets player Juan Soto, citing his own slow start in April 2024 as an example of overcoming early struggles. Soto, despite a modest start, maintains a .400 on-base percentage with two home runs and six RBIs in 16 games following a high-profile free-agent signing with the Mets.
Soto acknowledged the different pitching approach he has faced in 2025 compared to his successful 2024 season with the Yankees, where he finished third in the AL MVP voting. Judge highlighted the support Soto receives from teammate Pete Alonso, who is performing well behind him in the lineup. Judge's own rebound from a slow start in 2024 reflects positivity, as he currently boasts a .367 batting average, six home runs, and 20 RBIs in 16 games this season. The Yankees lineup, now without Soto, is thriving with emerging talents like Ben Rice and acquisitions such as Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt, contributing to the team's strong offensive performance in 2025.