Spanish
Bronx, New York. — The long-awaited return of Juan Soto to Yankee Stadium did not go unnoticed. In his first appearance as a visitor since leaving the New York Yankees, the Dominican outfielder was received with a deafening mix of emotions: a storm of boos combined with a handful of applause that set the tone for the night.
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What no one expected was his reaction. Far from being intimidated, Soto responded with a serene smile, demonstrating composure in the face of the Bronx's pressure. And when the applause, although scarce, began to sound, the slugger raised his helmet and bowed to those who still showed him respect.
A first shift loaded with tension
Facing his former teammate Carlos Rodón, Soto saw five pitches that ended with a walk to first base. Throughout the entire at-bat, the sound of boos did not cease. Even so, the Mets outfielder remained firm and continued on his way without being fazed.
In the bottom of the first inning, already positioned in right field, the boos intensified. It was then that the scene was repeated: massive rejection from the stands, but also some scattered applause. A reflection of the pain that Yankees fans still carry after his departure.
The contract that changed history
Soto left the Yankees in the past offseason, signing a historic $765 million, 15-year deal with the New York Mets. He rejected the $760 million, 16-year offer proposed by his then-team, a decision that still resonates deeply among Bronx fans.
The noise was comparable —and perhaps greater— to what he faced last year in San Diego. But this time, the emotional context was different: Soto was not only returning to a former home, but to the broken hearts of thousands of fans.
