Aaron Judge Expected to Make Strong Juan Soto Gesture Before Subway Series

The New York Yankees are preparing to host the crosstown rival New York Mets on Friday as the Subway Series begins.

But this New York City matchup will be a little different than in years past, as the best player on the Mets is making his return to Yankee Stadium for the first time since defecting from the Yankees.

After helping the Bronx Bombers get all the way to the World Series this past fall, Juan Soto opted for a record-breaking $765 million contract to join the Mets. And while both teams seem to be better off for the move, with each leading their respective divisions, Yankee fans are likely going to welcome Soto's return with boos and jeers.

"While some might argue that Yankees fans should move on, after all, Soto's departure likely led to the additions of Max Fried, Cody Bellinger and Paul Goldschmidt, a louder contingent will boo every time Soto ventures into right field, touches the ball or steps to the plate," Andrew Tredinnick predicted for NorthJersey.com.

And while the fan reaction will be decidedly negative, Tredinnick expects it to be a different story for the players, particularly Yankees captain Aaron Judge.

"The blood might boil among fans, but players share an understanding that the right to choose your destination is earned," he wrote. "Before the team's opening matchup on Friday, Judge and Soto come together behind the batting cages and exchange a handshake and hug to help smooth over the transition."

With so many intriguing storylines swirling around the upcoming Subway Series, virtually every gesture on and off the field will be scrutinized. We'll see if Tredinnick's expectation becomes reality. But whatever the two players decide to do, it's certain to make some headlines.