Juan Soto’s recent performance suggests he’s starting to shake off the rust that’s plagued his first two months with the New York Mets. From the Mets’ win over the Colorado Rockies on May 30 through their loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers on Thursday, Soto showed signs of breaking out, slashing .273/.484/.773 with a 1.257 OPS, three home runs, two doubles, eight walks, and six RBI over his past seven games. It’s a stark contrast to his overall numbers entering Friday’s action, where he was hitting .229/.367/.430 with a .797 OPS, 11 homers, and 31 RBI across his first 62 games. Soto’s candid admission to ESPN’s Jorge Castillo—“It’s a little difficult because it’s frustrating not seeing the results in what you’re doing”—reflects the challenge, but also his resolve. “I have a good routine. I have confidence in it, and I know I’ve done it for all these years,” he said, hinting at a turnaround.
The Mets, sitting at 39-24 and in first place, have managed without a consistently hot Soto, thanks in part to their teammates stepping up, especially with Francisco Lindor dealing with a broken pinky toe. Soto’s recent form, including a “Soto Shuffle” moment that had MLB Network declaring “Juan Soto is back folks,” suggests he’s finding his footing. His 15-year, $765 million contract, signed after helping the Yankees reach the 2024 World Series, came with high expectations, and while rumors of regret have swirled, his play and demeanor in Los Angeles—splitting two of four games—indicate he’s settling in. “Little by little,” he said, echoing the sentiment of progress.
For the Mets, a fully operational Soto could be a game-changer. His potential impact is immense, and with the team’s early success, the timing couldn’t be better. The Rockies series opener on Friday was another chance for Soto to build on his momentum, and for the Mets, it’s about harnessing that potential. Stay tuned, because this story’s got legs, and for Soto, it’s about proving his worth in Queens. The Mets’ season is young, but with Soto’s bat heating up, the future looks bright. The NL East is competitive, but with Soto finding his groove, the Mets are primed for a run.
