At 27 years old, Dominican Juan Soto already has a career that positions him as a future Hall of Famer. However, there is an achievement he has not yet reached: the Most Valuable Player award. In eight seasons in the Major Leagues, Soto has finished in the top ten in MVP voting six times, including a second place in the National League in 2021, the year Bryce Harper took the award. Since then, his main competitor has been Shohei Ohtani. Ohtani, now with the Los Angeles Dodgers, has won the award in the last two seasons and has four MVP trophies in his career. His ability as a two-way player makes him a constant contender.
“I’m going to be there every year too. He better keep doing what he’s doing, because I’m coming for him.”
Juan SotoDespite not pitching, Soto has established himself as one of baseball’s most complete hitters. Last season, he hit 43 home runs, stole 38 bases, led the league in walks and on-base percentage, and recorded an OPS of .921. In addition, he led the National League in steals, demonstrating a new strength in his game. Soto states that his goal is to keep improving, both offensively and defensively. He aims to raise his batting average, maintain his power, and perfect his performance in the outfield, seeking to emulate legends like Albert Pujols, Alex Rodriguez, Barry Bonds, and his former teammate Aaron Judge.“When you see seasons like the ones players have had in the past, you tell yourself that you have to be up there to be one of the greatest.”
Juan SotoBeyond the competition, Soto expresses respect for Ohtani, but makes it clear that the MVP is a personal and national goal. If he achieves it, he would become the first Dominican to win the award since 2009.With a guaranteed contract in the National League until 2033, Soto knows that the battle will be constant and is prepared to face it every season.“It would be something very special, not only for me, but for the Dominican Republic. Having another player from the island named MVP would be something big.”
Juan Soto
