The Significance of No. 22 for Juan Soto
Juan Soto, the prodigious outfielder who burst onto the scene with the Washington Nationals in 2018, has a deep emotional connection to the number 22. It was his first jersey number in the big leagues and has since become synonymous with his identity on the field. When the charismatic Soto signed a historic $765 million deal with the New York Mets this offseason, he was determined to keep his cherished number. However, one obstacle stood in his way: Brett Baty, a 25-year-old third baseman who had been wearing No. 22 since his call-up in 2022.
Brett Baty’s Generous Gesture
Baty, a talented player selected as the Mets’ first-round pick in 2019, was known for his humility and team-first attitude. In January, Soto reached out to Baty to discuss the number situation. Despite the significance of 22 to Soto, Baty could have held onto the number, but he chose to take a noble path. After a heartfelt conversation, Baty decided to give up the number, but he wasn’t going to do it without a little levity. He requested a meaningful gesture from Soto, and the superstar outfielder was happy to oblige.
The Grand Surprise
On a sunny Thursday morning, Soto brought the surprise to Baty outside the Mets’ Spring Training facility. The scene was befitting of a Hollywood script: Soto presented Baty with the keys to a brand-new SUV, a gesture that not only honored Baty’s willingness to change but also solidified the bond between the two teammates. In a video capturing the moment, Soto expressed his gratitude, saying, “I really appreciate the number. It’s the first one I ever wore.” The generosity and sportsmanship displayed by both players highlighted the good-natured camaraderie that often exists within professional sports teams.
Baty’s New Number and Inspiration
Baty, now transitioning to a new chapter in his career, hasn’t let the change go unnoticed. He has selected No. 7 for the upcoming season, a number he holds dear as it pays homage to two of his childhood idols: José Reyes and Joe Mauer. Reyes, a former Mets star, and Mauer, a former Minnesota Twins catcher, were both known for their exceptional skills and clutch performances. By choosing 7, Baty is not only honoring his heroes but also drawing inspiration from their legacies to elevate his own game. This decision underscores his respect for the past while looking toward the future with optimism and determination.
A Trend of Respect and Gratitude
This number swap and the generous gift from Soto is part of a larger trend in professional sports where players show respect and gratitude to their teammates. Last year, former Los Angeles Dodgers reliever Joe Kelly’s wife, Ashley, made headlines when she offered Shohei Ohtani her husband’s No. 17 if he signed with the Dodgers. Once Ohtani did sign, he reciprocated with a new Porsche, a gesture that emphasized the value of such gestures in building team cohesion. These acts of kindness not only create memorable moments for the players involved but also serve to foster a positive and supportive locker room environment.
The Human Side of Professional Athletes
At the core of these stories lies the human side of professional athletes. Despite the competitive nature of their profession, acts of kindness and mutual respect are common and cherished. Soto and Baty’s interaction, as well as Ohtani and Kelly’s, remind us that the camaraderie and personal connections formed on and off the field are just as important as the on-field performance. These moments offer a glimpse into the personal lives and values of the players, making them more relatable and admired by fans. The spirit of giving back and acknowledging the contributions of others is a testament to the character and integrity of these athletes, and it sets a positive example for future generations.
