Juan Soto’s trade to the New York Yankees earlier this off-season raised many eyebrows, given the significance of the blockbuster trade package and Soto himself. With Aaron Judge, Giancarlo Stanton already at their helm, the Yanks upgraded the lethal hitting lineup with the addition of a generational talent.

As the New York Yankees overcame the 2023 season setback to clinch the AL-East division and a playoff berth in 2024, a large section of MLB analysts and insiders highlighted Juan Soto’s contribution as a key factor leading to a change in fortunes. Kevin Barker recently gauged the Yanks playoff roster and made a bold prediction for the World Series.

Kevin Barker Says Juan Soto’s Absence Cost Yankees 2023 Season

X.com
An MLB insider named Kevin Barker from ‘The Blair and Barker podcast has highlighted the pivotal impact that Juan Soto had on the New York Yankees’ 2024 season, particularly in their pursuit of a World Series title. The insider emphasized that the Yanks’ struggles in 2023 were partly due to not having Soto in the lineup, hitting behind Aaron Judge. Without Soto, opposing teams were able to pitch around Judge, limiting his effectiveness. However, the addition of Soto in 2024 changed that dynamic, creating a formidable offensive duo. Now, only that, Barker predicted the Bombers would face the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2024 World Series, a matchup that many are anticipating as a showdown between two of baseball’s most powerful lineups.

The Dodgers, bolstered by a trio of potential Hall of Famers, Freddie Freeman, Mookie Betts, and Shohei Ohtani, are seen as a powerhouse in the NL. Despite the Dodgers’ potential weakness in pitching, Barker suggested that trade deadline acquisitions like Jack Flaherty, Michael Kopech, and Tommy Edman will help mitigate those concerns. For the Yankees, having Gerrit Cole, considered by many as the best-starting pitcher in baseball when healthy, provides a significant edge. Paired with an explosive offense led by Judge and Soto, the Yanks now have the tools to dominate the playoffs. The insider pointed out that in 2023, the Bombers lacked a reliable hitter behind Judge, making it easier for opposing pitchers to neutralize his power. With Soto now in the mix, the Yankees are seen as having the best offense in the AL, making them a strong contender for the 2024 World Series.

Aaron Judge Misses His Home Run Record

NY Post
Aaron Judge fell just short of the 60-home run mark in 2024, finishing the season with 58 home runs, which still led the major leagues. While he didn’t surpass his own league record of 62 home runs, which he set in 2022, his performance led the Yankees to the best record in the AL and secured a bye.

Notably, Judge’s 2024 season solidified his place among the game’s greatest power hitters. However, the elusive 60-home run mark remains a rarity in MLB history. Only Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa have reached the 60-homer plateau more than once. Despite not breaking any records, Judge’s 2024 season reaffirms his standing as one of the premier power hitters in the game.