New York Mets broadcaster Keith Hernandez offered a familiar critique of Yankee Stadium's dimensions Sunday, comments that precede the upcoming Subway Series and the return of Juan Soto to the Bronx. The exchange happened during the Mets game in St. Louis.
SNY analyst Keith Hernandez commented after a Mets batter hit a shallow fly ball to right field that did not leave the park. "Needless to say, that would've been a home run in Yankee Stadium,” Hernandez said.
The Yankee Stadium right field porch, known for its short distance from home plate, has long been a subject of commentary, often when games are played at the ballpark.
The Mets are scheduled to visit Yankee Stadium from May 16–18. The series will mark Soto’s first return to the Bronx since departing the Yankees in free agency.
Soto agreed to a large contract with the Mets over the winter. The move generated bitterness in the Bronx It also stirred plenty of bitterness in the Bronx and even some in Queens. and brought additional attention to the rivalry Related: Aaron Judge and the Yankees Make Juan Soto Look Like a Flop.
The 26-year-old outfielder's time in pinstripes was brief but productive, only deepened the sting. He is now set to play against his former team in their home ballpark.
Soto has already told reporters he is expecting the worst reception upon his return, and Yankees fans have shown previews of their reaction during other events.
Whether the comment from Hernandez was intended to heighten the rivalry ahead of the series or was a casual remark, its timing adds to the surrounding storylines before the Mets visit their crosstown opponents.
