By Sunday 
A Star’s Price for a Signature Number
New York Mets right fielder Juan Soto made sure to keep a personal tradition alive—and it only cost him a brand-new luxury SUV.
Soto’s Longtime Bond with No. 22
Since his MLB debut with the Washington Nationals in 2018, Soto has proudly worn No. 22. The number followed him through stints with the San Diego Padres and New York Yankees. But when he signed his massive $700 million contract with the Mets in December, there was one small hiccup—his beloved jersey number was already taken.
Infielder Brett Baty had been wearing No. 22 since his big-league call-up in 2022. Rather than settle for a different number, Soto found a creative solution to reclaim his digits.
A $92,000 Token of Appreciation
For a player of Soto’s caliber, money is no obstacle. This week, the Mets revealed on Instagram that the slugger gifted Baty a 2025 Chevy Tahoe, valued at $92,000, in exchange for the jersey number.
It’s a hefty price for two digits, but for Soto, it’s just another perk of his record-setting deal. With billionaire Mets owner Steve Cohen backing his contract, Soto is already spreading the wealth in the locker room—before even playing a game.
The Mets Era Begins
Soto’s generosity is just the beginning of his impact in Queens. As he gears up for his Mets debut, anticipation is high. The team kicks off spring training tomorrow, with tickets still available for Saturday’s matchup against the Houston Astros in Port St. Lucie.
Fans won’t have to wait long to see Soto in action—and yes, he’ll be wearing No. 22.