OMG Juan Soto underperforms once more with the Mets fans let down again

ago 11 hours
OMG Juan Soto underperforms once more with the Mets fans let down again

The New York Mets faced a tumultuous journey during the 2024 Major League Baseball season. Following a disappointing start, they rallied to secure a playoff position, only to suffer a loss in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) to the Los Angeles Dodgers, who went on to win the World Series.

With the excitement surrounding the team’s performance, the Mets sought to bolster their roster by signing star outfielder Juan Soto. After a fierce bidding war, Soto agreed to a staggering 15-year contract worth $765 million, choosing to play in Queens over his previous team, the New York Yankees.

Juan Soto’s Impact on the Mets

Despite Soto’s remarkable talent and strong statistics, the 2025 season saw the Mets miss the playoffs entirely. This came as a shock, especially given they had recently reached the NLCS and acquired a top-five player in the league. Many struggled to understand how a team with such high expectations could fall short.

Historical Context of Soto’s Teams

Juan Soto’s career has garnered significant attention due to his exceptional skills. His arrival in New York drew comparisons to past situations. Previously, the San Diego Padres, who traded for Soto, also faced similar disappointment after adding significant talent yet failing to reach the playoffs.

  • 2023 MVP voting: Soto finished sixth with a .930 OPS and 5.3 WAR.
  • 2024 projections: Expected to remain a top five MVP candidate with .921 OPS and 6.2 WAR.

While Soto has consistently contributed strong offensive numbers, questions arise surrounding his overall impact on team success. Critics point to his defensive abilities and the concerns surrounding his role within the Mets organization. While he is a powerful hitter, his contributions differ from players like Francisco Lindor, who is known for a more well-rounded game.

Financial Considerations

The decision to grant Soto the largest contract in baseball raised eyebrows. Concerns about the financial implications for the Mets—especially given Soto’s inability to lead his previous teams to playoff success—added to the debate. His high salary might limit the Mets’ flexibility in building a championship-caliber roster.

Looking Ahead

As the Mets move forward, questions surrounding their contender status linger. With 14 years remaining on Soto’s contract, the franchise must find ways to develop into a competitive team capable of making a playoff run. The Mets must balance raw talent with the capacity for winning, a challenge that will define their future success.