IN Baltimore, just ten minutes after the Yankees’ 4-2 defeat to the Orioles, Juan Soto remained in his away uniform at his locker while his teammates showered. Some wondered if he was stewing over the team’s offensive struggles or a missed catch opportunity that led to the Orioles’ first run. However, Soto was actually waiting to call out Orioles pitcher Dean Kramer for his apparent displeasure with Soto’s batting box routine.
Kramer’s offense? It seems he disapproved of Soto’s unique footwork in the box. Soto, tongue in cheek, speculated that perhaps Kramer didn’t like his home run either. Despite the Yankees trailing 4-1 in the sixth inning, Soto smashed a massive home run off Kramer’s pitch. Following the hit, Soto stood in the box, stared down Kramer briefly, then flipped his bat, trotted around the bases, exchanged a high-five with the third-base coach, and struck a pose at home plate.
While Soto often celebrates his home runs, this one felt personal. Before this game, Soto and Kramer didn’t have much history, with Soto being 0-for-2 with a walk in previous encounters. Soto’s post-game interview suggested that the staredown was just part of the game, and when asked about Kramer’s comments on his footwork, he brushed it off, suggesting to ask Kramer himself.
Unfortunately, the Baltimore media missed Soto’s remarks in time for Kramer’s interview, so he wasn’t questioned about the incident. Kramer, however, was praised by Soto for his performance on the mound despite giving up the home run.
The ongoing rivalry between Soto, Kramer, and the Yankees and Orioles could add an interesting subplot to the season. With more games between the two teams scheduled, the competition is expected to remain intense.
Soto may have landed a verbal jab at Kramer, but ultimately, the Orioles claimed the victory.
