Juan Soto was introduced as a member of the Yankees on Tuesday in a press conference on Zoom, during which he spoke of his excitement to get started in New York and addressed the possibility of extending his contract.
Soto hinted at the jersey number he’d be wearing with the franchise by logging into the media session with the Zoom username “22,” according to Bryan Hoch of MLB.com.
Soto was already donning a Yankees hat during his introductory press conference, offering fans a first look of the superstar in his new uniform.
The 25-year-old was acquired on Wednesday in a blockbuster trade with the Padres. He makes the move to New York ahead of his final year of arbitration, with free agency awaiting after the 2024 season.
“About any contract stuff, they know where to call and who to talk to,” said Soto, deferring contract talks to his agent, Scott Boras. “I’m here just to play baseball and try to keep concentrated on trying to play baseball.”
Juan Soto is keeping his focus on the field rather than on a potential contract extension as he prepares for the 2024 season. pic.twitter.com/th22jwf1P4
— YES Network (@YESNetwork) December 12, 2023
Soto called it a “great vibe and great experience” to play at Yankee Stadium, and said the home crowd was “incredible.”
He has played just seven games at Yankee Stadium in his career. The left-handed slugger recorded four home runs and nine RBI while logging a 1.219 OPS during that span.
There are championship aspirations in New York this season after a disappointing campaign in 2023. The addition of Soto will certainly enhance the Yankees’ title chances, as they look to put an end to a near 14-year World Series drought, and he seems eager to get started in the Bronx.
