The New York Yankees orchestrated one of the biggest trade deals of this off-season during winter meetings. The Bronx Bombers traded as many as five players to land superstar hitter Juan Soto. Apparently, the NYY front office made an aggressive push. And San Diego Padres gave in to the pressure owing to underlying financial issues.
Having said that, the New York Yankees blockbuster exchange package raised a lot of eyeballs across the league. Many deemed it unreasonable for a player to have a one-year guarantee. However, Brian Cashman and Aaron Judge reckoned it as a risk worth taking. Meanwhile, Michael King, who was a part of the trade package, agreed with the popular opinion of the fans.
Michael King Suggests Yankees Miscalculated Juan Soto Trade Package!
On the final day of winter meetings, the New York Yankees announced the trade of Juan Soto. As per the agreed package, Yanks received Juan Soto and Trent Grisham. On the other hand, the San Diego Padres welcomed Michael King, Jhony Brito, Randy Vasquez, Drew Thorpe, and Kyle Higashioka. Notably, the Yanks exchange package included experienced major leaguers except for Thorpe. Meanwhile, King, who was promised a starter’s role for this season, now finds himself in the Padres. He received the news of his transfer via a call while he was on a date with his fiancee. Regardless, King firmly believes that the Padres, in a way, won the trade exchange.
Michael King acknowledged that Juan Soto’s trade package was inevitably going to be huge. But he for sure didn’t expect these many major leaguers to accompany him to the Padres. “I was shocked to see the Yankees part with that many people,” King said. However, the pitcher seemed relieved as he deemed the Padres’ roster robust for the 2024 season. Besides, King revealed how he will play as a starting pitcher this year. Apparently, the pitcher has had that conversation with the club’s general manager, AJ Preller. They expect him to anchor the rotation. And the duo remains on the same page as far as expectations are concerned. Needless to say, losing a talent like Michael King will hurt the Bronx Bombers. But the upside of Juan Soto squashes all the concerns as Yanks gear up for the next season.
Aaron Boone Reveals How Yanks Are Pumped To Bounce Back In 2024!
Meanwhile, New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone shed light on the team’s spirits ahead of spring training. Boone reckoned that ending an 82-80 record season wasn’t easy for the players. The clubhouse was devastated after playoff elimination. However, the lost season has only added fuel to the Yankee players’ burning desire to win a World Series championship.
The New York Yankees are currently in the midst of a 14-year-long World Series drought. Many times, the team came close. But failed each time to cross the finish line. Regardless, the franchise seems committed to turning the tide this year. The front office built a robust roster accordingly. Now, the onus shifts on the players to do justice to their salaries and perform accordingly.
For more such updates about the Yankees and your favorite MLB teams, stay tuned with Sports News International.
