NEW YORK — In the realm of Yankees fandom, the idea of Juan Soto not donning pinstripes on Opening Day is simply unacceptable.

On Wednesday afternoon, Hal Steinbrenner hinted at this sentiment.

“We pay attention to our fans… he’s undoubtedly a key reason we reached the World Series,’’ the Yankees’ owner commented. “I’m aware of what is expected from me.’’

For Steinbrenner, the goal of acquiring Soto in free agency resembles the earlier pursuit of Aaron Judge, although this time the cost could potentially be double the $360 million Judge received.

Earlier in the week, Steinbrenner took a Yankee group—including GM Brian Cashman, manager Aaron Boone, club president Randy Levine, and special adviser Omar Minaya—to meet Soto in person, who played a pivotal role in leading the Yankees to their first pennant in 15 years.

At the MLB owners’ meetings in Midtown, Steinbrenner didn’t specify how much the Yankees were willing to invest in Soto but stated, “We have the capacity to sign any player we wish to sign.’’

Hal Steinbrenner reflects on Yankees’ meeting with Juan Soto

During their meeting in Southern California, Steinbrenner described the conversation with Soto and agent Scott Boras as a “very honest exchange” that lasted for “a couple of hours.”

Steinbrenner called the meeting “good,” but refrained from detailing specifics.

“We discussed our player development system, which I think he was not very familiar with,’’ Steinbrenner mentioned. “He’s probably inquiring about this from all teams.”

“He just wants to know about the talent pipeline and all that.’’

Steinbrenner admitted he didn’t get to know Soto personally during the season, partly because of Soto’s pregame routines.

“I don’t like interrupting that focus with players like him,” Steinbrenner explained, adding he talked with Soto about building a stronger relationship.

“If he returns next year, I made it clear that I want a relationship similar to what I have with Gerrit (Cole) and Judge. That message was shared.”

Hal Steinbrenner discusses Mets’ interest in Juan Soto

When asked about his chances of signing Soto, Steinbrenner replied, “I have no idea. We’ll be contenders. I’ll leave it at that.”

The competition also includes the Mets, Red Sox, Blue Jays, Dodgers, and Phillies, with Mets owner Steve Cohen having the financial resources to offer a lucrative contract.

“I could say that about a few other owners, too,” Steinbrenner noted. “Naturally, it’s a concern.”

Soto’s appreciation for New York is clear, but it could apply to both the Bronx and Queens.

“I have a good relationship with Steve,” Steinbrenner said, adding that they didn’t delve into specifics about Soto’s free agency.

According to Steinbrenner, their brief 10-minute chat during dinner on Tuesday was centered on “how much it hurts to lose a World Series,” a sentiment the Mets experienced in 2015. “That’s all there was to it.”

If the Mets were to secure Soto, the backlash from the Bronx would be significant.

“If it doesn’t turn out well for us,” Steinbrenner reflected, “it’s going to sting a bit, regardless of where he ends up.”

Hal Steinbrenner addresses Yankees’ financial plans

Regarding payroll, Steinbrenner noted, “we’re in a stronger position compared to last year” since contracts like those of Gleyber Torres and Anthony Rizzo are set to expire.

Steinbrenner mentioned that he does not have a specific payroll cap in mind, saying, “that’s what I communicated to Cash. I want to keep all options open and continue discussions.”

Once again, Steinbrenner pointed out that “payrolls similar to this year” and the existing luxury taxes “are not sustainable… for most owners, possibly all owners.”

However, he emphasized that there isn’t a “For Sale” sign in the Bronx, nor is there for the majority of MLB owners.

“This doesn’t mean that during any particular year, I can’t pursue what I intend to pursue,” Steinbrenner stated about the team’s financial power. “We have the capacity to sign any player we wish to.”

Steinbrenner expressed uncertainty about whether Soto prioritizes signing with the highest bidder, saying, “I can’t really say.”

“All I can confirm is that I believe he enjoyed his time here. He’s close to Aaron Judge and Aaron Boone. We’ll see what happens.”

“Ultimately, though, he needs to make the best decision for himself and his family.”