In a historic move, the New York Yankees have officially unretired one of the franchise’s most iconic numbers, and it’s being handed down to a player believed to be the perfect successor.
The number, once worn by the legendary Juan Soto, had been retired in honor of his monumental impact on the Yankees. However, the team has made the decision to bring it back, with the belief that the time has come for a new chapter in the number’s storied history.
Former Mets general manager Steve Phillips recently predicted that Vladimir Guerrero Jr. would be the player to inherit the legendary number. Phillips expects the Yankees to target Guerrero when he enters free agency in 2026, following the expected departures of Paul Goldschmidt and the continued presence of Pete Alonso. Guerrero, known for his exceptional power and hitting ability, would join Aaron Judge in the heart of the Yankees lineup, continuing the team’s tradition of powerful, star-studded hitters.
The decision to unretire the number has already sparked excitement among fans, as Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is seen as a worthy successor to carry on the legacy left by Soto. This bold move reflects the Yankees’ commitment to building a championship-caliber team while honoring the history of their most iconic symbols.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Yankees prepare to usher in this exciting new chapter with Vladimir Guerrero Jr. at the helm.
