Soto HR in 10th wins 5-2, vaults Yankees into World Series for 41st time

Juan Soto was supposed to be the difference-maker, the one who pushed the New York Yankees back to the top.

They’re one step away.

Soto hit a three-run homer with two outs in the 10th inning and the Yankees advanced to their 41st World Series — and first in 15 years — by beating the Cleveland Guardians 5-2 in Game 5 of the AL Championship Series on Saturday night.

Baseball’s biggest brand is going back to October’s main stage.

Soto, who was acquired in a seven-player trade from San Diego in December, pushed the Bronx Bombers into position with one big swing.

The Yankees, who missed the playoffs a year ago, will try to win their 28th title, facing either the New York Mets or Los Angeles Dodgers. Game 6 of the NL Championship Series is Sunday night at Dodger Stadium.

Luke Weaver got the final three outs, with Lane Thomas flying out to right field for the last one, which was caught by Soto.

The 25-year-old Soto is eligible for free agency this winter, and Yankees fans chanted “Re-sign Soto!” during the postgame festivities. He’s expected to get a contract upward of $600 million, and his heroics in Game 5 may have raised his price.