The New York Mets: A Year of Ups and Downs for Juan Soto and the Team
The New York Mets reached a milestone in their final stretch of home games of the 2025 season, surpassing 3,182,057 fans at Citi Field, setting a single-season attendance record. However, the performance on the field did not always reflect the enthusiasm of the fans. Despite the record attendance, the team struggled on the field. Fighting to secure a playoff spot as a National League wild card, the Mets lost key series against the Texas Rangers and the Washington Nationals, compromising their postseason aspirations. The fans, present at every game, expressed their frustration with boos at certain moments.Juan Soto, the team’s star signing, also experienced difficult moments. Although he had outstanding performances with several multi-hit games and home runs, he made costly errors and was caught stealing bases at critical moments. This rollercoaster reflects his first season as a Met, marked by high expectations.
Despite the support of the fans, fueled by the team’s progress and their outstanding performance in 2024, the Mets, with an expensive roster, went from leading the league in June to an irregular performance that put their postseason qualification at risk. Individually, Soto achieved one of the best seasons in franchise history, with a performance worthy of an MVP, which helped keep the Mets’ playoff hopes alive. However, to return to Citi Field in October, the team will need a spectacular finish, similar to last season’s, and possibly face the Dodgers in a wild card series. Soto, the Mets’ big investment, is in the spotlight. After a turbulent adaptation, he seems to be finding his place on his fourth team in four seasons.After helping the New York Yankees reach the World Series, Soto joined the Mets hoping to find a permanent home. However, the start of his potential 15-year contract was complicated. Early in the season, his results did not meet expectations. His body language was analyzed and the external noise intensified. Starting in June, Soto improved his performance, recording an outstanding offensive line in 100 games. His OPS of 1.036 places him among the best in the league. In addition, he has hit 34 home runs and has maintained a high on-base percentage, demonstrating his value to the team. Soto became the second player to record three consecutive seasons of 100 RBIs, all with different teams, since RBIs became an official statistic in 1920. He is six RBIs away from tying his personal record of 110 and has already set other significant career marks. Soto’s desire to challenge the skeptics was manifested in his game. Although he had never stolen more than 12 bases in a season before 2025, he set out to steal more bases, working with coach Antoan Richardson to improve his acceleration and reading of pitchers. Despite his offensive progress, Soto has experienced a defensive regression. Although his main goal is to win a Gold Glove, metrics indicate that he has been one of the worst right fielders in the league. Soto’s bat has largely compensated for his defensive deficiencies, especially in crucial moments. In September, he is batting .346 with an OPS of 1.127, seven home runs, and 10 stolen bases. His teammates highlight his professionalism and consistency. Mets batting coach Jeremy Barnes explained that Soto made a mechanical adjustment to stay better in contact with the ball and avoid ground balls. This, along with his confidence and plate discipline, has generated his best month as a Met, despite the team’s disappointing results. Soto counted on the support of Starling Marte, who became his confidant in the locker room. Marte, 10 years older than Soto, provided support and advice, creating an atmosphere of camaraderie and trust. Ryne Stanek, Soto’s teammate, has noticed a transformation in his teammate. Soto has opened up more as the season progresses, and the pressure seems to have lessened. Soto’s relaxation became evident when he appeared at Citi Field with braids, a change suggested by Ronny Mauricio. The Mets won that day, but the team’s inconsistency persisted. Despite the challenges, Soto never faltered. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza praised Soto’s consistency and his impact on the team. The question now is whether Soto can help salvage his first season with the Mets.“It’s a little better. Soon. Soon.”
Juan Soto
