After their spring training matchup, New York Mets star Juan Soto shared his thoughts on facing his former team, the New York Yankees, and what it will mean for the upcoming MLB season.

© Rich Storry/Getty Images Juan Soto #22 of the New York Mets warms up during spring training workouts at Clover Park on February 17, 2025 in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

One of the top players to watch as the 2025 MLB season approaches is Juan Soto. Following his high-profile move from the New York Yankees to the New York Mets, Soto is ready for the new challenge. While he’s confident about his role with the Mets and feels comfortable with his new teammates, he recently shared his thoughts on facing his former team this season.

Despite a strong performance last year, the Mets made a decisive move to add Soto to their roster. While the Yankees made an effort to retain him, their offer ultimately fell short. This led to mixed reactions from Yankees fans, who weren’t thrilled about Soto’s move to their crosstown rivals. The discontent was evident during Monday’s spring training game.

Reflecting on the upcoming matchups against his former teammates, Soto acknowledged the tension and admitted that Yankees fans likely hold a grudge against him. “For me, it’s a different feeling facing those guys. It was a really fun experience. I know their mindset, how they are, and I had good conversations with them after the game,” Soto said.

He added, “You know Yankees fans—they can surprise you with anything. I’m expecting the worst when I face them in the regular season.” Soto recognized that it won’t be easy facing fans who, just a year ago, were cheering for him but now view him as the enemy after his switch to the Mets.

Juan Soto #22 reacts after scoring on a home run hit by Giancarlo Stanton #27 of the New York Yankees against the Los Angeles Dodgers during Game One of the 2024 World Series at Dodger Stadium on October 25, 2024 in Los Angeles, California.

Soto’s comments on Yankees’ struggles during spring training

The Yankees have faced some significant challenges this spring, with key players dealing with injuries. Soto, who has been closely following the medical updates of those players, shared his thoughts on the situation. Having previously been teammates with some of these players, Soto expressed his concern as the season nears.

“I’ve been in touch with a lot of guys over there, and I definitely know what’s going on,” Soto said. “Even though they’re not my teammates anymore, I still want to know that they’re okay and how they’re feeling about these injuries.“

While the New York Mets and Yankees share one of the fiercest rivalries in MLB, Soto’s concern remains with his former teammates. As the regular season approaches, he’s committed to performing at his best for the Mets, but his thoughts are still with those he played alongside in the Bronx.

Soto’s confidence in Mets’ World Series pursuit

As the Mets aim for the World Series title, Soto remains confident in his teammates’ abilities to reach their goal. Despite challenges during spring training, including injuries, Soto believes the team is in a strong position to compete for the 2025 Commissioner’s Trophy.

“I think we’re in a really good spot,” Soto said. “We definitely had to go through some adversity in spring training, dealing with some injuries and stuff like that, but I think we’re going to be fine.”