Because of Juan Soto’s outfield glove, the New York Yankees most definitely did not acquire him this offseason.
Soto has consistently been a contender for MVP because of his devastating left-handed bat, but his defensive performance has severely suffered. Over his career, the newly acquired Yankees star has a minus-15 defensive runs saved.
However, Soto wants to strengthen his unsteady defensive performance in pinstripes, and he got some assistance in that area from a former Red Sox outfielder who earned a Gold Glove with the team in 2018.
Scott Boras, Soto’s agent, informed SNY’s Andy Martino that Soto worked with Jackie Bradley Jr. on defensive drills in Miami during the offseason.
According to Martino, Soto told reporters earlier this week, “I want to keep getting better in every spot, but my strength has got to be definitely coming in on the ball and trying to grab those bloopers from the other side.” “Cutting those balls off is my current strength, where I strive to assist my pitchers as much as I can. However, I want to get better at everything—throwing, going into gaps, arm, and everything else. And undoubtedly learning a little bit about Yankee Stadium. That wall there (right field) is likely to present some challenges. However, it will also be enjoyable because this is a new challenge and step for me.
Soto started 154 games in left field for the San Diego Padres a season ago but will make the switch to right with Alex Verdugo manning left and Aaron Judge taking over in center.
Bradley, who played for the Red Sox for more than eight seasons, and Soto are in different stages of their careers. Bradley is merely trying to prolong his career, while Soto, 25, is starting a new chapter in his already remarkable career by playing for his third team.
Bradley, a defensive star who hit just.133 in just 43 games, was released by the Kansas City Royals in June. Bradley considered retiring this summer but hasn’t decided to give up on his career entirely. He still doesn’t have a Major League Baseball home.