The New York Yankees’ Opening Day turned out to be an unforgettable spectacle, largely thanks to their newest acquisition, Juan Soto. The young star’s exceptional performance, which marked his debut for the Yankees, was the highlight of the match against the Houston Astros.
In a game that saw the Yankees claw back from an early 4-0 deficit to register a 5-4 win, Soto’s contribution was paramount. Known primarily for his batting prowess and keen eye, it was his defensive skill that proved to be the game-changer this time.
Juan Soto. New York Yankee. pic.twitter.com/I5bIc26Bzf
— New York Yankees (@Yankees) March 28, 2024
Soto, in his first game wearing the Yankees’ pinstripes, showcased his defensive skills by throwing out a runner at the home plate in the ninth inning. This crucial moment secured the Yankees’ comeback win, making his debut memorable.
In the ninth inning, with Astros’ runners on first and second base and only one out, Kyle Tucker hit a single to right field. Soto, fielding the ball with momentum, released a powerful throw to the home plate. The throw was nothing short of perfection, arriving in a single hop to catcher Jose Trevino, who tagged out Mauricio Dubon.
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The Yankees’ players were effusive in their praise for Soto. “That was a Yankee classic right there,” expressed Aaron Judge, one of the team’s leading figures.
The team not only appreciated Soto’s contribution but also seemed to draw inspiration from his patient and tough at-bats. This approach helped them overcome the early deficit and start the season on a winning note.
Soto’s offensive contribution was also noteworthy. Despite being known more for his defense, he managed to go 1-for-3, with a couple of walks and an RBI. His first walk was particularly impressive, resulting from an eight-pitch plate appearance. This kind of patient batting is an attribute that the Yankees hope to see throughout their lineup.
The Yankees’ comeback was not just about one player, though. The entire team put up a fight after being down 4-0 early in the game. They managed to put up consistent pressure on Astros’ left-hander Framber Valdez, eventually forcing him out in the fifth inning.
With the bases loaded and no outs, Soto’s RBI single got the Yankees on the scoreboard. Later, Anthony Rizzo was hit by a pitch on the forearm, forcing in another run and ending Valdez’s outing. Anthony Volpe then drew another walk to make it 4-3.
“There was no panic or fear in the clubhouse or in the dugout. When we went down 3-0, 4-0, the guys just stayed locked in on their approach and what they had to do,” said Judge.
Apart from Soto, other Yankees’ players also stepped up in this comeback win. Oswaldo Cabrera, filling in for the injured DJ LeMahieu at third base, hit a solo home run in the sixth inning to tie the game. Alex Verdugo, another new addition to the team, put the Yankees ahead with a sacrifice fly in the seventh inning.
After a shaky start by Nestor Cortes, who allowed the Astros a 4-0 lead, the Yankees’ bullpen, comprising Jonathan Loaisiga, Ian Hamilton, and Clay Holmes, held the fort. Their collective effort, along with Soto’s defensive brilliance, sealed the win for the Yankees.
Meredith: Any doubt in your mind you were getting Dubon at the plate?
Juan Soto: Not at all…
Meredith: Were you impressed by the tag by Trevi?
Soto: It’s a Platinum Glove. You can throw anywhere. He will do the thing pic.twitter.com/6IKcbPDAhK
— Talkin' Yanks (@TalkinYanks) March 29, 2024
“That’s a really good win. The compete — that’s the kind of offense we want to be. … Those were heavy, laden at-bats. Wore down Framber a little bit, made him work really hard, got him out of there. We were able to put enough on the board and then the [bullpen] took it from there,” concluded Boone.
