Juan Soto leaves a mark on All-Star Game with both bat and camaraderie

Yankees' sluggers Aaron Judge and Juan Soto at Arlington, Texas, during the All-Star Games on July 16, 2024.
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Esteban Quiñones
Wednesday July 17, 2024

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At Tuesday’s All-Star Game at Globe Life Field, New York Yankees’ Juan Soto showcased his growing camaraderie with Aaron Judge, both on and off the field, despite being in the first year of his Yankees career. Their cooperation was evident as they supported each other throughout the event.

Juan Soto ensured his captain had his turn at bat, while Judge later helped the Dominical navigate questions about his future. Their teamwork contributed to the American League’s 5-3 win over the National League.

The game highlighted the diverse levels of stardom in baseball. Shohei Ohtani, who hit a three-run homer for the National League, stands out as a singular talent. Rising star Paul Skenes, only 22, is quickly gaining recognition. Judge and Juan Soto, however, have long been established among the game’s elite hitters.

Yankees All-Stars (right to left) Aaron Judge, Juan Soto and Clay Holmes pose for a picture in the dugout before the AL’s All-Star Game victory.
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Starting his first All-Star Game alongside Judge, Juan Soto described the experience as “unbelievable” and “once-in-a-lifetime.” He expressed gratitude for the chance to play with one of the league’s best players.

“It was an unbelievable experience,” he told. “It’s once in a [life]time that you get the chance to go [to the All-Star Game] for a first time with one of the best players in the league.”

Their emerging chemistry hints at a potentially formidable partnership, blending their individual talents into a powerful duo for the Yankees. This All-Star Game appearance highlighted not only their skills but also their developing rapport as teammates.

Juan Soto showcased his support for teammate Aaron Judge during the All-Star Game, particularly in a pivotal matchup against rookie pitcher Paul Skenes. Batting cleanup, Judge had his chance at the plate thanks to Soto’s determined at-bat.

Facing two strikes, Juan Soto focused on prolonging the plate appearance, drawing a crucial walk to set the stage for Judge. As Judge stepped up, the slugger offered encouragement, highlighting their teamwork.

Though Judge ultimately grounded out on the first pitch, Juan Soto’s effort had set the scene for the much-anticipated showdown between Judge and Skenes.

Juan Soto helps American League come back

Later, with the American League trailing 3-0, Juan Soto came to bat in a critical situation. His performance exemplified his individual prowess and his dedication to supporting his teammate and his team in this high-profile event.

Juan Soto made a notable contribution to the American League during the All-Star Game. He lined a shot into right-center field, driving in two runs and stretching it into a double due to Teoscar Hernandez’s positioning in center field. Soto later scored on David Fry’s single, aiding the AL’s rally.

Both Juan Soto and Judge, who were mic’d up for the Fox broadcast, exited the game together after four innings and participated in joint media interviews. When questioned about the possibility of playing together beyond this season, the slugger appeared uneasy.

Judge promptly stepped in, steering the conversation back to the current season and the team’s primary goal of winning a championship. He stressed the importance of focusing on present objectives rather than future contract speculations.

“Let’s just get through this year,” Judge said. “The main goal’s to win a championship. … We’ll focus on that, get to the rest later.”

This exchange underscored the growing camaraderie between Judge and Juan Soto, as well as Judge’s leadership in managing potentially sensitive discussions regarding his superstar teammate’s future with the Yankees.

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