This year, the New York Yankees will have the luxury of two of the league’s most dynamic hitters, Aaron Judge and Juan Soto. The latter was acquired this off-season via trade with the Padres. On the other hand, Judge is on a quest to become a Yankee for life after agreeing on a nine-year extension contract in 2022.
Meanwhile, ahead of the 2024 season, the formidable duo of Aaron Judge and Juan Soto are rated pretty highly. Both the hitters are expected to witness a successful season with the bat. Moreover, if latest odds are to be believed, Judge and Soto can allegedly have a showdown in American League MVP race.
Aaron Judge, Juan Soto Likely To Battle It Out In AL-MVP Race
As the 2024 MLB season kicks off, the New York Yankees find themselves with not one but two strong contenders for the AL-MVP award. Aaron Judge and Juan Soto are both rated highly in the prediction list. While Judge is revealed as the top contender with +550 odds, Soto is right behind in second place with +600 odds. Both players have shown immense talent and potential throughout their careers. Moreover, their performances during spring training have only solidified their status as frontrunners in the AL MVP race. That being said, Judge is already a proven star, having won the 2022 season AL MVP award. He shattered a long withstanding 62-home run record to fetch the prestigious accolade.
On the other hand, Juan Soto missed out on the MVP recognition by a bare margin a couple of years ago. He lost the NL MVP race to Bryce Harper. However, Soto’s talent and elite skillset is already proven. At just 25 years of age, the generational slugger has a championship and three all-star appearances to his name. Having said that, irrespective of personal achievements, it is important for the New York Yankees to promote a team-first culture. Both sluggers will be responsible for offensive production next year. Thus, it’s crucial for Aaron Judge and Juan Soto to work in harmony as teammates. Overall, as the season progresses, all eyes will be on Judge and Soto as they look to lead the Yankees to success and cement their place among the elite players in the league.
Yankees Manager Finalise Aaron Judge, Juan Soto’s Outfield Plans
Meanwhile, ahead of the 2024 season opening day, New York Yankees manager Aaron Boone shared his outfield plan. As per his plan, Aaron Judge will play center field whilst Juan Soto will field in right. Moreover, Alex Verdugo will handle left field duties. Additionally, Giancarlo Stanton could get a game or two in short left-field porch stadiums.
Now, the only thing left for Aaron Boone to decide is the hitting order. While Boone envisions Aaron Judge at second and Juan Soto at third, the Yankees captain begs to differ. Judge wants to bat third with DJ LeMahieu as leadoff and Juan Soto at second. It would be interesting to see how the powerhouse-hitting order shapes up.
For more such updates on the New York Yankees’ 2024 season, follow the Sports News International space.
