The Yankees game opener against the Mets on Friday night provided a memorable moment, largely fueled by a passionate Yankees fan’s creative display of disapproval for Juan Soto. The atmosphere was electric, punctuated by boos and, notably, some NSFW language, as fans expressed their sentiments during the 6-2 Yankees victory. At the heart of the excitement was a fan who brought a large, prominently displayed photo of Soto’s face, adorned with the caption "Boo this man!" and the word "Boooooooo" written boldly beneath it. This homemade sign quickly became the game’s biggest storyline, particularly as the SNY broadcast team, led by Keith Hernandez, reacted with amusement. Hernandez, observing the fan in the fourth inning with a 4-0 score, commented with a laugh, "I hope you feel better, sir."

The SNY crew then engaged in a detailed discussion about the sign’s craftsmanship, praising it as "outstanding arts and crafts," according to former Mets pitcher Ron Darling. Play-by-play man Gary Cohen further probed the situation, inquiring about the font used in the sign’s creation, highlighting the fan’s deliberate effort. The fan’s actions immediately captured the attention of the broadcast and the wider baseball audience, representing a significant shift in how Yankees fans are expressing their opinions about Soto. The intensity of the boos reached levels comparable to those directed at former Yankees star Jose Altuve, demonstrating a remarkable level of fan disapproval. Throughout the game, fans relentlessly booed Soto, and even engaged in chants of "F–k Juan Soto," mirroring the tradition of voicing criticism towards Altuve, who was at the center of the Astros’ cheating scandal. Adding to the spectacle, the Blecher Creatures, the Yankees’ right-field section, turned their backs on Soto during his first plate appearance in the first inning. This dramatic gesture further amplified the fan’s statement and underscored the significant impact Soto’s decision to leave the Yankees had on the team’s fanbase.

The situation is particularly noteworthy because Soto, a rare star, chose to decline the Yankees’ offer, which was just $5 million less over one additional year than the Mets’ offer, and he was able to secure bonuses with the Mets that widened the gap. This decision represents a shock to the system for Yankees fans, accustomed to acquiring top-tier talent. Soto’s choice to select the Mets instead, despite the Yankees’ offer, highlights his agency and strategic decision-making. Soto handled the situation with remarkable composure publicly, tipping his helmet in a gesture of respect during his first plate appearance, even while facing the extreme vitriol directed at him. He went 0-for-2 with three walks and one run scored, demonstrating his ability to navigate the intense pressure. Soto will have another opportunity to silence the Yankees’ fans during Saturday’s matinee contest at 1:05 p.m. ET, continuing a storyline that promises to remain a central focus of the season.