Juan Soto Awakens: The Showman Returns to MLB
At Dodger Stadium, Juan Soto, the New York Mets star, showed why he was awarded the most lucrative contract in sports history. In the matchup against the Dodgers, Soto stole the show without needing to hit the ball.
In his second and third at-bats, Soto had epic seven-pitch battles against pitcher Tony Gonsolin. Both matchups culminated in walks, capturing the public’s attention both between pitches and during the action.
Soto smiled while waiting for the pitches, after taking balls and after connecting a foul line. He nodded, shook his head, stepped back and walked with elegance. In the end, after a doubtful swing to take his second base on balls, Soto and Gonsolin exchanged words.
“It’s Juan Soto being Juan Soto,” commented Mets manager Carlos Mendoza.
Carlos Mendoza
This Soto, the showman, had been absent for his first two months with the Mets, failing to meet the high standards expected. Although the metrics suggested bad luck, the results were not ideal for a 26-year-old superstar.
According to the data, Soto had not had the necessary luck, but he was aware of it.
In addition to his performance, Soto’s behavior in the first two months was different. He received criticism for lack of enthusiasm and his characteristic style at the plate had not been seen. His body language was analyzed, and the boos were constant.
Before Wednesday’s game, Soto admitted that adapting to his new team and the weight of a $765 million contract had been a challenge. “I need a little more time, but little by little it has been improving. I feel more comfortable,” Soto said.
Soto has had the support of Mendoza, with whom he “talks a lot.” These conversations, which take place weekly or bi-weekly, help Soto feel more integrated.
Mets’ president of baseball operations, David Stearns, emphasized that Soto’s work off the field was not a problem, although he acknowledged that he was trying to do too much. Stearns is confident that Soto will achieve the expected results, understanding the pressure that comes with a contract of that magnitude.
Soto had a productive week, with six hits, eight walks, and only two strikeouts, achieving an on-base percentage of .484 in his last seven games against the Rockies and the Dodgers.Although he has shown flashes of his talent, Soto seeks to maintain an elite performance. His current numbers do not match those of previous seasons. “It’s frustrating not to see the results of what you’re doing,” Soto said. “I have a good routine and confidence in it.”
Clay Holmes, Soto’s teammate on the Yankees, sees the same player. Scott Boras, who negotiated Soto’s contract, noted that Soto’s return to Yankee Stadium was a “hurdle” in his adaptation process. “It’s psychological,” Boras said about the transition. “They treat you differently because of your contract.”Boras observed Soto’s resurgence at Dodger Stadium, a hint of what the Mets hope to see consistently.
Soto is still batting .229 with a .797 OPS, 11 home runs, and leads the league with 50 walks in 62 games.
