Brian Cashman is among the many people around the Yankees who have been impressed with Juan Soto.
But Mr. Cashman’s opinion carries more weight than most.
The Yankees’ general manager traded for the superstar in December, knowing Soto would likely become a free agent after the season.
Soto, who played during his contract season with his new club, lived up to the Yankees’ expectations, boasting an on-base percentage of .431 and an OPS of .995, the best in the AL, and contributing more than expected as a right fielder.
“We all know he’s a Hall of Famer, right? He’s unique in that sense. There are only a few that can fit into that category,” Cashman said. He made his first public comments of the season at a mural unveiling ceremony hosted by the Bronx Children’s Museum and the Players Alliance. “When you get these capabilities and types, you expect migration to be easy and plug-and-play.
“And so far, the transition has been easy and plug-and-play.”
Soto has been great on the field and is well-regarded off the field, with manager Aaron Boone frequently praising his makeup and personality in the clubhouse.
He’s heard chants of “MVP” in right field and has been welcomed by a fan base that is probably looking to get access to Hal Steinbrenner’s checkbook in hopes of getting an extension for the 25-year-old.
Cashman reiterated that there are no extension negotiations underway.
Scott Boras, who represents Mr. Soto, generally prefers for his clients to enter the public markets.
“It’s great to have him here and play for us,” Cashman said before Soto hit his sixth home run of the season in a 7-3 win over the Athletics in the Bronx. I’m really grateful.” “He’s been a driving force for us. I feel like his personality is a good fit for the team, and our fan base. It’s been a good run. And he’s obviously achieved the winning pillar quite often so far. He contributed to this.”
John Barty, who is out with a left groin strain, could begin rehabbing this weekend, Boone said.
Coach Boone didn’t expect Berti to need a long stint in the minors before he was ready.
With Oswaldo Cabrera the regular third baseman, Berti is extremely important for the Yankees, who are without DJ LeMahieu and have no backup first baseman or backup shortstop.
Berti, who could return as early as next week, could solve that problem by placing Cabrera at No. 3.
Nick Vardy, who last pitched on April 16 before being placed on the 15-day disabled list with inflammation in his right hip, received the shot Monday, Boone said.
The right-hander, who was able to throw from his knees during downtime, could return to throwing from the mound this weekend.
The Yankees are 17-2 (.895 batting average) this season when they score at least three runs, the best record in the majors.
Thursday’s Athletics starting pitcher Alex Wood was ejected in the bottom of the first inning. The reason was unknown.
