Juan Soto's introduction, first look as a Yankee is everything fans dreamed of

Forgive anybody for ever suggesting that trading for Juan Soto and/or extending him for life wasn't a necessity for the New York Yankees. Without the proper introduction, it's understandable why anybody would think that.

But upon further review, after a few personal encounters, this man seems to be everything the Yankees and their fans have needed during this disappointing championship window that continues to fluctuate but always has the same ending.

Soto didn't get a proper introduction as a Yankee. He was acquired via trade in December and, as society has desended into worthlessness, was presented to the team, media and fanbase via Zoom. Yes, a Zoom call. That thing you partake in while going No. 2 with the video and sound off. Couldn't be less personal, less exciting.

So fans knew they had to wait until players began reporting to spring training to see the real Juan Soto, and Monday was the day. And what a day it was.

Soto arrived at the Yankees' facility a day early, interacted with the team's social media account, rocked some NYY gear to sport his new look, and had as good a media session as one could have when joining the league's most renowned franchise.

Juan Soto's introduction, first look as a Yankee is everything fans dreamed of

He's got good vibes! You hear that, folks?! He's feelin' it! He seems as comfortable as ever in the most demanding spotlight there is. A week before his arrival, he took time out of his day to speak with the Yankees' Dominican Republic Academy to impart wisdom on the young up-and-coming talent. All signs point to Soto wanting to be here.

Then, he took the podium and had his first (official) introduction to the team and fanbase. He was asked just about every pertinent question you could imagine, and his responses were all on point. But none was better than what he had to say about hitting back-to-back with Yankees captain Aaron Judge.

Perhaps the best kind and most effortlessly communicated form of cockiness? He's just saying what everyone's thinking. As easy as that sounds, Yankees fans haven't been used to that, as the last few years have been lacking candor and confidence.

Soto reiterated once again that he's here for 2024 and that his focus is to win in 2024. And that's how fans should be viewing the relationship, too. Nobody's promised tomorrow, and the opportunity for the Yankees to capitalize is here, and it's never been more advantageous since 2019.

Give Soto that good first impression and then there's a real chance he'll be here for the majority of his career.