Aaron Judge knew these questions were coming. The New York Yankees captain took a break from batting practice, outfield drills, and signing autographs to address the media for the first time since making his way to Tampa for spring training.

That’s his opinion,” Judge said of Soto believing the Mets are in better position to win. “He can say what he wants. I definitely disagree with him.”

Judge and Soto were a dynamic duo for the Yankees, and will now be interleague rivals. In 157 games for the Yankees last season, Soto slugged 41 home runs and drove in 109 runs. The left-handed outfielder posted a 178 OPS+ that ranked second for his career, only behind the shortened 2020 season.