Juan Soto is preparing for his first World Series game as a Yankee, but even as the Bombers prepare for their first Fall Classic in 15 years, plenty of discussion is around Soto’s future, as he will become a free agent in a matter of weeks.
Keith McPherson isn’t sweating it as a Yankee fan, as he believes the Bronx and its heavy Dominican representation, along with a year of exposure to being a Yankee, is going to keep Soto in pinstripes for the rest of his career.
“If you have boots on the ground in the Bronx…I remember early in the season talking about where he was getting his hair cut and places Gleyber Torres was taking him to. Those things do matter,” Keith said. “Those things do matter. Even Robinson Cano being in his ear. Don’t you think Robby Cano, dontcha know, told him a thing or two about being a Yankee? And coming back being a Met?”
Soto put together a superstar season in 2024, and now holds one of the more memorable playoff home runs in recent Yankee history after his three-run blast in extra innings to send the Yanks to their first pennant since 2009. Keith doesn’t see him giving up the fame that comes with being a winning Yankee, especially when those around him seem to have deep ties to the team, and the area, as well.
“You guys saw Juan Soto’s dad on the field in full Yankee gear,” Keith said. “He is where he wants to be. They went out to get Juan Soto to put them over the hump…and it happened.
“I think they have a huge leg up. I think they’re so far out in front with getting to see what it’s like being a Yankee this year…I think they have a huge leg up with him being next to Gleyber Torres…he had his best season hitting in front of Aaron Judge. The Yankees have a huge leg up.”