Juan Soto Breaks Slump with Home Run in Mets Victory
In an exciting game, Juan Soto ended a 17-game home run drought, hitting a 404-foot home run in the New York Mets’ 8-2 victory over the Colorado Rockies.Soto’s hit, his first since May 9, came off the bat at 109.5 mph and defied a 14 mph wind blowing towards right field.
“He took a very good swing,” commented Mets manager Carlos Mendoza. “For him to hit a home run like that on a day when the conditions weren’t in his favor is impressive.”
Carlos Mendoza
When asked if he was sure the ball would leave the park, Soto smiled.
“At 110 mph, you have to be,” Soto said. “I knew it was going.”
Juan Soto
This home run drought was the fourth longest in the outfielder’s eight-year career. Soto, who signed a record $765 million, 15-year contract in December, was coming into the game batting .143 with two extra-base hits in his last 17 games.
The fans at Citi Field have maintained consistent support for Soto, who responded to the public’s ovation after his home run. He received chants of “JUAN SO-TO” from the fans in right field in the top of the fifth inning, to which he responded by raising his arms in a gesture of gratitude.
“It’s a great feeling to feel that support,” Soto said.
Juan Soto
Soto’s home run came one pitch after Brandon Nimmo hit a two-run homer to right field.
“Francisco (Lindor) and I were taking a picture,” Nimmo said, referring to the Mets’ tradition of posing in the dugout after home runs. “We heard the sound of the bat and the crowd going wild. We looked and could see the ball flying. That’s when he’s at his best.
Brandon Nimmo
“I think the weather is starting to get better, we enter June, this field will start to play a little fairer. I think it’s a sign of good things to come. It’s great to connect consecutive home runs with him.”
