New York Yankees slugger Juan Soto Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Juan Soto cuts down runner at plate to save game for Yankees

By Adam Gretz | Last updated 3/28/24

The New York Yankees acquired outfielder Juan Soto primarily for his bat and the impact he can make at the plate. On Opening Day of the 2024 season, it was his arm that ended up making the difference in a 5-4 win over the Houston Astros.

With the Yankees clinging to the one-run lead in the bottom of the ninth inning, Houston's Kyle Tucker ripped a single to right field that sent Mauricio Dubon on his way home as the potential tying run.

Soto was having none of it and ended up saving the game with this throw, preserving the lead.

Juan Soto unleashes the cannon to cut down the tying run! #OpeningDay pic.twitter.com/HejWK7I7IS
— MLB (@MLB) March 28, 2024

Houston challenged the call but it was upheld on review.

The game ended one batter later when Alex Bregman grounded into a fielder's choice.

Along with his game-saving play in the ninth inning, Soto went 1-for-3 with an RBI and two walks to help the Yankees overcome an early 4-0 deficit for the win.

The Yankees are trying to bounce back from their disappointing 82-80 season a year ago. While the spring injury to starting pitcher and reigning American League Cy Young winner Gerrit Cole is a huge obstacle, Soto has the potential to be an impact player in their lineup. Especially with an opportunity to play half of his games at Yankee Stadium as a left-handed power hitter.

As he showed on Thursday, he is not just an impactful bat for the lineup. He is an outstanding complete player who can impact the game defensively as well.

More must-reads: