CLEVELAND – Juan Soto was intended to be the key player to elevate the New York Yankees back to prominence, and it appears he has delivered.
Soto smashed a three-run homer with two outs in the 10th inning, leading the Yankees to a 5-2 victory against the Cleveland Guardians in Game 5 of the AL Championship Series on Saturday night. This win secured the Yankees’ place in the World Series for the first time in 15 years.
Acquired in a major trade from San Diego last December, Soto’s timely hitting proved pivotal as he propelled the Yankees into the postseason spotlight.
“Obviously he put up an amazing season statistically, but in the biggest moments, that’s what he does,” said Yankees manager Aaron Boone. “And it shouldn’t be taken for granted.”
The Yankees, who missed the playoffs last year, now aim for their 28th title against the winner of the NL Championship Series between the New York Mets and Los Angeles Dodgers, with Game 6 set to take place on Sunday.
With the score deadlocked at 2-2 in a tense matchup at Progressive Field, Austin Wells walked in the 10th, followed by a grounder from Alex Verdugo that was mishandled by rookie shortstop Brayan Rocchio, allowing the inning to continue. After striking out Gleyber Torres, pitcher Hunter Gaddis found himself in a 1-2 count against Soto, who ultimately launched a high fly over the center field wall.
“Just an at-bat for the ages,” Boone remarked, as Soto celebrated his momentous hit.
Soto expressed his confidence during the at-bat, saying, “You’re all over that guy. He ain’t got anything.”
Luke Weaver secured the final three outs, with Soto catching the final fly ball.
Since joining the Yankees, Soto has seamlessly integrated into the team, silencing skeptics who doubted his ability to thrive under the intense scrutiny of the New York media landscape. Boone commended Soto for his camaraderie within the squad, noting, “He’s just one of the guys.”
At 25, Soto is set to become a free agent this offseason, and his heroics in Game 5 may boost his market value. Yankees fans displayed their enthusiasm with chants to “Re-sign Soto!” during the postgame celebration.
The Yankees were also powered by Giancarlo Stanton, who hit a two-run homer and was named ALCS MVP. New York overcame challenges, having experienced a mix of victories and close calls throughout the series, particularly in Cleveland.
The Guardians, under first-year manager Stephen Vogt, fell short of the World Series, extending their championship drought since 1948. Vogt expressed pride in his team’s growth, despite the ultimate disappointment.
Meanwhile, the Yankees have regained their status as a title contender after a disappointing previous season. Boone acknowledged the team’s dedication and unity, noting how well they have bonded as a family.
Yankees’ left-handed pitcher Nestor Cortes also made progress in his recovery from an elbow strain and is on track to join the World Series roster.