David Ortiz vehemently opposes the idea of Juan Soto joining the New York Yankees

David Ortiz wants no part of seeing Juan Soto in a Yankees uniform originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

The Red Sox legend, David Ortiz, expressed a strong preference for Juan Soto to avoid landing with the Yankees at all costs. Soto, one of the MLB’s most promising young hitters, is rumored to be seeking a new team, with the Padres facing a potential payroll cut. While Ortiz would love to see Soto in a Red Sox uniform, he dreads the possibility of seeing him don the pinstripes, according to a rumor that has been percolating.

“He’s a great kid,” Ortiz remarked from Florida, where he’s hosting his 15th annual celebrity golf classic in support of the David Ortiz Children’s Fund. “He will be the perfect fit for any organization — hard-working kid, we all know his talent. And I don’t want to see him wearing the Yankees uniform.”

Ortiz’s concern is justified by Soto’s remarkable talent, boasting a World Series win, a batting title, multiple MVP finishes, and numerous Silver Slugger awards, at the young age of 25. Soto also holds an impressive lifetime on-base percentage of .421, ranking first among active players and 13th since 1900.

Ortiz’s connection with Soto extends beyond his on-field skills. As neighbors in the Dominican Republic, they frequently converse and have developed a personal relationship.

“Anybody would like to have a guy like Juan Soto,” Ortiz emphasized, “But I would (rather) have him on my squad than have to deal with watching him play somewhere else. It’ll be interesting to see what the organization plans to do with him.”

Soto’s potential last year of arbitration is set to surpass $30 million, and his rejection of a $400 million-plus extension from the Nationals suggests a potential availability. However, with hefty commitments to other players, the Padres’ maneuverability remains uncertain.

Given the recent extension of Rafael Devers and potential reluctance to part with young talent, the Red Sox’s pursuit of Soto may be complicated. However, Ortiz emphasized Soto’s status as a franchise player due to his talent and work ethic.

“The guy has all the tools,” Ortiz stressed. “And like I said, I would not be happy watching him play in pinstripes.”