Juan Soto surprises Brett Baty with a car after receiving his iconic No. 22 jersey

New York Mets player Brett Baty generously handed over his No. 22 jersey to Juan Soto after the star outfielder signed a record-breaking 15-year contract worth $765 million. In appreciation, Soto surprised Baty with a brand-new car on Thursday.

Soto presented the gift — a new SUV — at spring training, leaving it parked in the players' lot. It was a gesture of gratitude for Baty relinquishing No. 22.

The New York Mets made headlines this offseason by securing free-agent outfielder Juan Soto with a historic contract worth $765 million over 15 years.

Juan Soto gives car keys to Brett Baty

The New York Mets shared the moment on their official social media channels.

In the video, Soto, dressed in his uniform, is seen handing Baty the car keys before they exchange hugs.

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There was a giant red bow placed on the hood, with the message "Thanks for #22" written on the rear windshield. "This is awesome, bro," Baty commented. "I wanted to give you something nice," Soto responded.

The video ended with Baty expressing his gratitude and sharing another hug with Soto.

Soto thanked Baty in a video shared by the Mets on Instagram, saying, "I really appreciate the number. It’s the first one I ever wore."

Baty and Soto’s recent conversation

Baty recently revealed that Soto had texted him about the jersey number, and they worked everything out. He added that he was happy for Soto to take No. 22, saying, “Out of anyone in the league, having the best hitter wear that number is something I’m happy with.”

Soto has worn No. 22 throughout his career and explained at his introductory press conference at Citi Field in December why it held such significance for him.

He shared that No. 22 was the first number he wore upon reaching the major leagues, and it has remained deeply meaningful ever since. Soto described his excitement when the Nationals first assigned him the number and how much he cherishes it—so much so that he even wears a gold chain featuring No. 22.

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FAQs

1. What number does Brett Baty wear now?
Brett Baty now wears No. 7 after giving up No. 22 to his New York Mets teammate, Juan Soto.

2. Who are the New York Mets?
The New York Mets are a professional baseball team based in New York City. They compete in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a member of the National League (NL) East division.