Juan Soto Returns Strong After Hand Injury Scare TORONTO (AP) — New York Yankees outfielder Juan Soto made a triumphant return to the lineup on Sunday for the series finale against the Toronto Blue Jays, following a brief absence due to a bruised right hand.
Soto, a three-time All-Star and the 2020 NL batting champion, had sat out Saturday’s game after sustaining the injury during a slide into home plate in Friday night’s 16-5 victory.
Despite initial concerns, Soto showed resilience by singling off Toronto right-hander Kevin Gausman in his first at-bat and scoring on Aaron Judge’s home run, his 31st of the season.
Initially expected to rest, Soto’s inclusion in Sunday’s lineup came minutes before the game, with him starting in right field while Judge served as the designated hitter.
Yankees manager Aaron Boone expressed relief at Soto’s improvement, noting, “Pretty significant improvement from where he was yesterday with the treatment he was able to get.”
Soto, maintaining a .302 batting average with 20 home runs and 60 RBIs this season, underwent precautionary X-rays on Saturday, which ruled out any fractures.
Despite feeling discomfort during batting practice, Soto’s determination to contribute positively to the team was evident.
With the Yankees enjoying a day off on Monday before resuming play against Cincinnati on Tuesday, Soto’s return adds a crucial dimension to their lineup as they continue their push for postseason contention.
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