Torey Lovullo’s Blunt Take on Juan Soto and Yankees Teammates

In a thrilling matchup at Yankee Stadium on May 5, 2025, the New York Yankees secured a 6-3 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks, thanks to a stellar performance by star outfielder Juan Soto. While Diamondbacks manager Torey Lovullo was quick to praise Soto’s brilliance, he didn’t hold back when addressing the rest of the Yankees lineup, delivering a nine-word comment that has sparked heated debates across the baseball world: “If they only relied on him, they would struggle.”

Soto Shines in Yankees Victory

Juan Soto was the undeniable hero of the night, going 3-for-4 with a towering home run, two doubles, and four RBIs. His 400-foot blast in the fifth inning off Diamondbacks starter Zac Gallen broke the game open, energizing the 45,000 fans in attendance. Soto’s season stats are equally impressive—batting .315 with 12 home runs and 38 RBIs through early May, he’s cementing his case as one of baseball’s elite.

Post-game, Lovullo couldn’t help but tip his cap to the 26-year-old superstar. “Soto is a generational talent,” Lovullo said. “He’s a tough out, always has been. He changes the game with one swing.” Soto’s performance was a reminder of why the Yankees signed him to a massive 15-year, $765 million contract in the offseason, a move that has already paid dividends as they sit atop the AL East with a 22-12 record.

Lovullo’s Sharp Nine-Word Comment

While Soto earned well-deserved praise, Lovullo’s tone shifted when asked about the rest of the Yankees lineup. In a moment of candid honesty, he delivered a pointed nine-word assessment: “If they only relied on him, they would struggle.” The comment, though brief, was loaded with implication, suggesting that Soto’s teammates aren’t pulling their weight—a bold statement from a rival manager.

The Yankees’ supporting cast has indeed been inconsistent this season. Aaron Judge, despite a .280 average, has only six home runs, a slow start by his standards. Gleyber Torres is batting a disappointing .245, and the bottom of the lineup has struggled to produce. On X, fans and analysts quickly seized on Lovullo’s words, with some agreeing that Soto has been carrying the team, while others defended the Yankees’ depth. One user posted, “Lovullo isn’t wrong—Soto’s been the whole offense some nights.” Another countered, “The Yankees are 22-12. They’re fine. Lovullo’s just salty.”

Yankees Respond to the Critique

Yankees manager Aaron Boone was quick to address Lovullo’s comment in his post-game press conference, standing up for his squad. “I respect Torey, but I disagree,” Boone said. “This team has a lot of fight. Soto’s leading the way, but we’ve got guys stepping up every night.” Boone pointed to shortstop Anthony Volpe, who went 2-for-3 with a stolen base in the game, as evidence of the team’s balanced attack.

Soto himself took the high road when asked about Lovullo’s remark. “I just focus on playing my game,” he said with a smile. “My teammates are great. We’re a family here.” But behind the scenes, sources say Lovullo’s comment struck a nerve in the Yankees clubhouse, with some players feeling motivated to prove their worth in upcoming games. “It lit a fire,” one anonymous player told ESPN. “We’ll show him.”

Diamondbacks Struggle to Keep Up

For the Diamondbacks, the loss dropped their record to 16-18, a disappointing start for a team with playoff aspirations. Gallen, their ace, took the loss after giving up five runs in six innings, with Soto’s home run being the dagger. Lovullo’s frustration was evident, and some speculate that his comment about the Yankees was a reflection of his own team’s struggles. Arizona’s offense managed only three runs, with Ketel Marte’s solo home run being their lone highlight.

Diamondbacks fans on X expressed mixed feelings about Lovullo’s remarks. One wrote, “Torey’s right about Soto, but why call out the Yankees? Focus on our guys.” Another added, “Love the honesty, but let’s get our own house in order first.” The loss marked Arizona’s third straight defeat, putting pressure on Lovullo to turn things around as the season progresses.

What’s Next for Both Teams

Lovullo’s comment has added fuel to an already intense rivalry, setting the stage for a fiery rematch when the teams meet again in Arizona later this season. For the Yankees, the challenge is clear: prove they’re more than just Soto’s supporting cast. With a favorable stretch of games against the Orioles and Red Sox coming up, they’ll have a chance to show their depth.

Meanwhile, the Diamondbacks need to regroup. A tough road trip against the Dodgers and Padres looms, and Lovullo will need his team to channel their frustration into wins. As for Soto, he remains the constant—unfazed by the drama and focused on leading the Yankees to another postseason run. One thing is certain: Lovullo’s nine words have given baseball fans plenty to talk about, and the fallout will be felt for weeks to come.