Paul Goldschmidt gives massive compliment to Juan Soto; makes feelings known about playing with Max Fried, Devin Williams

The New York Yankees failed to bring back Juan Soto after his career-best season with the team in 2024 as the Dominican superstar signed a $765 million deal with the New York Mets in the offseason.

However, following their failed pursuit of Soto, the Yankees pivoted with the signing of outfielder Cody Bellinger and veteran first baseman Paul Goldschmidt to aid the offense.

Goldschmidt, seven-time All-Star, signed a one-year, $12.5 million contract with the Yankees in December. In conversation with SNY, the 37-year-old first baseman shared his thoughts on Soto's blockbuster deal with the Mets (17:00 onwards):

"I was watching Soto, I mean, everyone was watching, you know to see where he was going to end up. You know, again, potentially the best hitter on the planet, one of them for sure, and he had such a great year. So, happy for him and again, he's gonna play great for the Mets."

Apart from the veteran first baseman, the Yankees also strengthened the pitching staff by signing All-Star starter Max Fried on a $218 million contract and trading for two-time Reliever of the Year Devin Williams.

Paul Goldschmidt made his feelings clear on the signings, saying:

"You know I faced Devin Williams a lot. I joked with Brian Cashman or Aaron Boone that I was just happy I didn't have to face him anymore because I don't think my numbers were very good. He's been a really good pitcher and same with Max Fried. I played against these guys a lot and so, hopefully, we can go out there and play well together."

Paul Goldschmidt was frustrated by underwhelming 2024 season with Cardinals

Paul Goldschmidt walked into free agency after the 2024 season with the St. Louis Cardinals. His fifth and final year with the Cardinals was one of the least productive seasons of his illustrious MLB career and the former MVP knew about his shortcomings.

"The feeling was just like, 'Man, I'm better than this,'" Goldschmidt said. "But you got to go out and prove it. I mean, if you don't perform, then you know you're not going to be playing. And I think that's just the truth in this game and in life."

The four-time Gold Glove winner fills the void left by first baseman Anthony Rizzo, who became a free agent after an underwhelming season with the Yankees in 2024.