Tue Feb 18 12:30:00 UTC 2025: ## Soto’s Mega-Deal Sparks Friendly Rivalry Between Mets and Yankees
**TAMPA, FL** – Juan Soto’s record-breaking $765 million contract with the New York Mets has ignited a friendly rivalry with his former teammate, Aaron Judge of the Yankees. While Judge expressed happiness for Soto and admitted he wasn’t surprised by the decision, he firmly disagreed with Soto’s assessment that the Mets offer a better chance at a championship.
Soto chose the Mets’ 15-year deal over a competitive offer from the Yankees, citing his belief in the Mets’ long-term winning potential. Judge countered, “That’s his opinion. I definitely disagree with him,” while acknowledging Soto’s lucrative contract and predicting years of intense competition between the two teams.
The two players remain on good terms despite the off-season events. Judge, who signed a massive contract extension with the Yankees last year, revealed that Soto changed his phone number, delaying their post-signing contact.
Judge also reflected on the Yankees’ World Series loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers, expressing that the sting of defeat is far worse than not making the playoffs. He addressed a controversial error in Game 5, stating that the Yankees simply needed to play better to overcome the Dodgers’ claims of anticipating defensive mistakes.
Finally, Judge shared his joy over the recent birth of his daughter, Nora Rose, and how fatherhood adds extra motivation to his already impressive career. He aims to stay at the top of his game, hoping to inspire his daughter while he plays.
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