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The New York Yankees crushed Kansas City Royals in AL Division Series to advance to AL Championship Series where they will meet Cleveland Guardians in a best of seven games series starting from Monday. On the other hand, an exciting matchup in brewing in the National League as well.

New York Mets beat Philadelphia Phillies 3-1 in NL Division Series to set up a NL Championship series clash with LA Dodgers. Meanwhile, chances of a potential subway rivalry in World Series is highly likely at this point and amid this high-pressure playoff campaign, impending free agent Juan Soto could emerge as a real winner.

Yankees-Mets Rivalry Is A Good Sign For Juan Soto

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The New York Mets’ recent success in the postseason has not only placed them in contention for the NL Championship Series but has also strengthened their chances of landing Juan Soto in the offseason. Two MLB insiders, Kiley McDaniel and Buster Olney, believe the Mets’ impressive performance may attract Soto, especially if they continue their strong form. According to McDaniel, Soto’s decision could hinge on the New York Yankees’ performance in the World Series. If the Yanks win, Soto might re-sign with them. However, if they lose, he could be more likely to join the Mets. Olney, taking it a step further, suggested that the Mets’ current momentum makes them frontrunners regardless of the Bombers’ outcome in October.

He points out that Mets owner Steve Cohen would likely be excited by the team’s performance and eager to build on that success by making a major acquisition like Soto. With the Mets riding high and Cohen is known for his willingness to invest heavily in the roster, Olney speculates that it could become a “blank check” situation to ensure Soto joins the Mets. “I think he’s going to wind up with the Mets either way,” Olney said. Having said that, on the New York Yankees’ side, Olney noted that owner Hal Steinbrenner might not have the same unlimited budget as Cohen, which could put the Yankees at a disadvantage in a bidding war for Soto. Soto, who has already turned down a 15-year, $440 million offer from the Washington Nationals in 2022, is represented by agent Scott Boras, further complicating negotiations.

Aaron Judge Looking Forward For Subway Rivalry

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Aaron Judge, captain of the New York Yankees, acknowledged the possibility of another Subway Series, expressing excitement at the thought of potentially facing the Mets in the World Series. “It’s gonna be a fun time in New York. They’re having a great season, looking forward to facing them again,” Judge said.

As the New York Yankees prepare to face the Cleveland Guardians in the AL Championship Series and the Mets rest ahead of their matchup with the LA Dodgers in the NLCS, the anticipation is building fast. Undoubtedly, a Subway rivalry would mean a baseball renaissance in New York, with the city once again buzzing with friendly rivalries.