During his introductory news conference with the New York Mets on Thursday, Juan Soto admitted he had not spoken with his former New York Yankees teammates since the end of the World Series. There seems to be a reason for that, but is it valid?
According to MLB insider Bob Nightengale, Soto changed his cell phone number heading into the offseason because he “was bombarded by outside calls during his free agency and wanted privacy.” Given this, it makes sense that none of the Yankees would actually have the number and be able to contact him.
However, Soto shared the number with at least one of his future Mets teammates. Shortstop Francisco Lindor told MLB.com that he texted Soto shortly after he inked his 15-year, $765 million deal on Sunday night.
Additionally, Mets outfielder Brandon Nimmo reportedly contacted Soto during the free agency process to make his pitch for why the slugger should join him at Citi Field.
So at least two of the Mets had Soto’s new cell phone number before he agreed to his contract, but he hadn’t theoretically shared that number with any of his former Yankees teammates? Piece together what you will from that thought process, but it certainly sounds like Soto was already thinking about his debut in Queens rather than saying any goodbyes (or listening to any pitches) in the Bronx.
It also partially explains why Soto didn’t contact Aaron Judge after he won the American League Most Valuable Player Award — or does it? Perhaps Soto didn’t keep Judge’s number when he moved his contacts to his new phone, or maybe Soto was trying to stay quiet with Judge, knowing he would contact him after deciding on his future.
For what it’s worth, Nightengale did mention that “Soto now is reaching out to former Yankee teammates.” Hopefully, they will recognize his new number.
