Yankees Begin Spring Training with Soto and Judge Leading Powerhouse Lineup

The New York Yankees opened their 2026 spring training facility in Tampa with unprecedented excitement as newly-acquired superstar Juan Soto took his first batting practice alongside MVP Aaron Judge. The duo, which general manager Brian Cashman called "potentially the most dangerous 1-2 punch in baseball," has energized a fanbase hungry for the team's 28th World Series championship.\n\nSoto, who signed a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract with the Yankees in December, looked comfortable in his new pinstripes during Tuesday's initial workout. The 27-year-old Dominican outfielder took 47 swings in the batting cage before moving to the field for defensive drills alongside Judge and veteran center fielder Harrison Bader.\n\nManager Aaron Boone expressed his enthusiasm about the offensive possibilities during his opening press conference. "Having Juan and Aaron back-to-back in the lineup gives us a different dimension," Boone said. "Pitchers can't pitch around one without facing the other. It's going to create opportunities throughout our entire order."\n\nThe Yankees' projected starting lineup features Soto in right field batting second, immediately ahead of Judge in center field. This configuration allows both sluggers to see maximum fastballs while protecting each other from intentional walks. Early projections from baseball analytics firms suggest the duo could combine for 90+ home runs this season.\n\nBeyond the star power, the Yankees have also addressed their pitching depth with the additions of veteran starter Marcus Stroman and closer Clay Holmes returning from injury. The rotation, anchored by ace Gerrit Cole, appears deeper than it has been in recent years.\n\nFirst baseman Anthony Rizzo, entering his third season in New York, noted the palpable energy difference in camp. "You can feel it from the moment you walk in," Rizzo said. "Everyone knows this is a special group with a real chance to bring a championship back to the Bronx."\n\nThe Yankees will play their first Grapefruit League game against the Detroit Tigers on February 24th, with Soto expected to make his spring debut.