New York Yankees' Juan Soto during the fourth inning of a baseball game against the Minnesota Twins, Thursday, June 6, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
In a recent development, discomfort in his left forearm forced Juan Soto, the star outfielder for the New York Yankees, to exit the game against the Minnesota Twins. The incident occurred during the sixth inning, just as play resumed following a 56-minute rain delay.
Soto’s Performance
Before he had to leave the game, Soto, who has been a key player for the Yankees, walked twice and managed to score a run. His exit came during the final game of a three-game series with the Twins, a series that saw the Yankees win the first two matchups.
Potential Impact on the Yankees
The Yankees are currently enjoying a seven-game win streak, and Soto’s injury could potentially be a significant setback. Soto, who agreed to a one-year, $31 million deal with the Yankees this offseason, has not missed a game this season and played all 162 games last year while with the San Diego Padres.
Soto’s Career and Current Season Form
The seventh-year veteran has played 150+ games in all but two of his major league seasons. He has been in excellent form this season, having the fourth-best batting average (.319), the fourth-most home runs (17), and the third-most RBI (53) in the majors through 63 games.
Next Steps
Following the incident, Soto is set to undergo imaging tests on Friday to determine the extent of the issue. Yankees’ manager Aaron Boone stated that it’s too early to tell if the right fielder will need to miss time. “I don’t know what it’s going to show,” Soto said.
Team Adjustments
In Soto’s absence, Alex Verdugo, who was traded to New York from the Boston Red Sox this offseason, came in to play. Verdugo has eight home runs and 34 RBI with a .252 batting average across 218 at-bats so far this season.
Looking Ahead
The Yankees, who are currently sitting at the top of the AL East with a 44-19 record, will face a major test against the Los Angeles Dodgers this weekend. They will be hoping to have Soto back on the field before then.
This incident underscores the physical demands of the sport and the potential risks that players face. As fans and teammates await the results of tests of Soto, the hope is that the forearm discomfort is minor and that he will be back on the field soon, continuing to contribute to the Yankees’ impressive season.
