The Subway Series kicks off this weekend in the Bronx, and all eyes are on Juan Soto’s return as a New York Met, facing his former team, the Yankees, for the first time since his offseason move. Yankees fans are ready to let Soto hear it—boos are expected after he joined their crosstown rival, a decision that still stings for many in the Bronx. Soto, however, is prepared for the reception, and the matchup on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 7:05 PM ET (YES Network) is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated games of the season.
Aaron Judge, the Yankees’ captain, addressed Soto’s return with his characteristic class, reflecting on their close friendship formed during Soto’s lone year in pinstripes in 2024. “It’s definitely personal for the fans, and they can have their opinion,” Judge told NJ.com, “but Soto is a good friend of mine. We built a great relationship when he was here, so I’m always wishing him nothing for the best.” Judge acknowledged Soto’s choice to sign with the Mets—a 15-year, $765 million deal—saying, “He made that decision for what he thought was best for him and his family.” Despite the void Soto left, Judge has remained supportive, even as fans trolled the Mets for briefly benching Soto ahead of the series to manage his workload.
Judge himself is having another MVP-caliber season, leading the league with a .412 batting average, 15 home runs, and 41 RBIs through 43 games, as noted in the sports data card. Fresh off his 2024 AL MVP win, he’s on pace for another 50-plus homer season, carrying a Yankees squad that’s defied injury woes to lead the AL East at 25-18. Soto, meanwhile, is hitting .306 with 12 homers for the Mets (26-17), but his return to Yankee Stadium—where he and Judge formed one of baseball’s best offensive duos—adds an emotional layer to this rivalry clash.
The atmosphere in the Bronx will be electric, with fans packing the stands for a game that’s as much about pride as it is about standings. Judge’s stellar play gives the Yankees an edge, but Soto’s familiarity with his former teammates could make this a tight contest. As the Subway Series unfolds, the focus will be on how Soto handles the boos—and whether Judge can lead his team to a statement win over their crosstown foes. This weekend promises drama, and the baseball world will be watching.
