The New York Yankees are coming off a remarkable run to the World Series, where they fell just short against the Los Angeles Dodgers. While many expected them to bring back the bulk of their core, they’ve made significant moves in several positions-particularly after the massive departure of superstar Juan Soto, who joined the Yankees’ crosstown rivals, the New York Mets, signing the largest contract in American sports history.

The Mets, fresh off a loss in the NLCS, saw Soto cite his belief that he had a better chance of winning a World Series as a key reason for his decision. Aaron Judge addressed this during the Yankees’ spring training practice on Monday. “That’s his opinion.” Judge said. “He can say what he wants, I definitely disagree with it. I wasn’t too surprised by it, I think that’s where he wanted to be. I think that’s where it was best for him and his family, and he got a pretty nice deal over there.” Judge added, “It’s like, you can’t say no to that,” Judge said of Soto’s $765-million, 15-year deal.” But I’m happy for him; he got a good deal. He’s gonna be in a great spot. It’s gonna be great having him in town; we’re gonna be battling back and forth for quite a few years.”

Aaron Judge was asked if he was “surprised” Juan Soto left for the Mets for a better chance to win a World Series:

“That’s his opinion. He can say what he wants, I definitely disagree with it. I wasn’t too surprised by it, I think that’s where he wanted to be.” pic.twitter.com/1Y3p51YkNW — Yankees Videos (@snyyankees) February 17, 2025 Judge and Soto spent just one season together, and despite the success they shared, Soto chose to part ways, even though the Yankees made a very thorough and competitive offer.

The Yankees’ final offer to Soto was 16 years for $760 million, while he ultimately agreed to the Mets’ offer of 15 years for $765 million, slightly surpassing the Yankees’ bid. The Boston Red Sox and Toronto Blue Jays also put offers on the table. Despite this, the Yankees bolstered their roster by making key additions, including notable names such as Cody Bellinger, Max Fried, Paul Goldschmidt, and Devin Williams.