Juan Soto has changed the dynamic of the roster in the New York Yankees team. In 2023, the team struggled a lot, even though they had some of the best offensive players like Aaron Judge, Anthony Rizzo, and Giancarlo Stanton. But injuries to these key players made things difficult for the NY side last year. The Yankees captain did not have another superstar who could take his place in the offense when he was out. Moreover, the AL 2022 MVP missed 35 games on the trot owing to a torn ligament injury in his toe. Nothing really went the Yankees’ way in 2023.
However, Gerrit Cole, the Yankees ace pitcher, had his career-best season, winning the AL Cy Young Award for the first time. But the offense really let the Bronx Bombers down. Hence, it was essential to make some significant changes, and that’s what the NY side did. They sacrificed their pitching department to bring reinforcements to their offense. That’s how Juan Soto came to wear the Yankees colors. Ever since he joined the Pinstripes, the team has been looking really good. They started the 2024 season on a really high note. Lately, an MLB expert has been talking about where Juan Soto must improve.
Sal Licata Said It’s Not Good That Juan Soto Is “Looking For Walks” In Big Spots
The Yankees are enjoying their best start to a season in a really long time. Currently, they are leading the American League East division with a great 10-3 record. The offense has been doing really well, with the Designated Hitter Giancarlo Stanton having a sudden comeback to form phase. Moreover, the pitchers have managed more or less well without the ace (Gerrit Cole), who is out with a right elbow injury. But the biggest hit so far has been the youngsters like Oswaldo Cabrera and Anthony Volpe, along with Juan Soto for the Yankees. However, Aaron Judge seemed to struggle a bit with a slow start. Recently, Sal Licata of WFAN Sports Radio mentioned that Juan Soto must look into doing something with the bat.
Sal feels the Dominican slugger is only looking for walks. But as per Licata, a walk is not better than a hit. Moreover, Sal points out that the Yankees need Soto to do some damage as Judge is struggling, and there’s a hurler on the ropes. Also, the runners on the first and second are in a spot. That’s where Juan Soto needs to do damage. But he is drawing walks. Moreover, Sal Licata mentioned, “Swing the bat, bro, if you wanna get paid.” Licata does not want Soto to pass the baton but does some damage. He just cannot accept a walk in that spot.
But The Stats Show The Best Hitter In Baseball Has Already Done Some Damage In Yankees Colors
After the first 13 games in 2024, the Yankees are sitting comfortably with 10 wins at the top of the AL East division. Juan Soto played a massive role in the early success of the NY side this season, especially given the fact that Aaron Judge had a pretty slow start. Moreover, the Dominican slugger hit .360 with a 1.008 OPS.
However, Sal Licata wants Juan Soto to do more than just get on base. After all, the best hitter comes in a spot that can decide a game. So far, Licata said Soto has been passing the baton to the Yankees captain, who has been very cold in 2024. Hence, as per Licata, Soto failed in that spot.
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