Juan Soto bombarded with boos during Yankees return
- Juan Soto faced hostile reactions from Yankees fans during his return to Yankee Stadium after signing with the Mets.
- He received multiple boos during his at-bats, with the crowd showing their displeasure over his departure from the Yankees.
- Despite the negative reception, Soto remained composed and engaged with the fans, showcasing his resilience.
In May 2025, Juan Soto made a highly anticipated return to Yankee Stadium, where he had played for the New York Yankees during the previous season. The Bronx crowd greeted Soto with a barrage of boos, demonstrating their displeasure over his departure to the rival New York Mets after a single season with the Yankees. Soto, having helped the Yankees advance to the 2024 World Series, had signed a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract with the Mets, which left Yankees fans feeling betrayed after he turned down their lucrative offer. Despite the hostility from the fans, Soto appeared unfazed, tipping his helmet in response to the jeers. Yankees manager Aaron Boone and broadcaster Michael Kay commented beforehand that the crowd's animosity was to be expected, with Kay specifically encouraging fans to boo Soto but advising against profanity. Soto's return was marked by a standing jeer from the fans, along with a chorus of boos, particularly during his first at-bat. The game was part of the Subway Series, which pitted the two New York teams against each other, igniting fierce competition and fan rivalry. Soto finished the game maintaining his composure, walking in multiple at-bats despite the crowd's reaction, and expressed confidence in handling the situation. This meeting showcased both the personal and professional stakes involved, as well as the intensity of fan loyalty in New York sports culture. Ultimately, Soto's transition from the Yankees to the Mets encapsulated the complexities of player dynamics and fan emotions within Major League Baseball.