Juan Soto, All-Star outfielder and one of the most sought-after figures in Major League Baseball, is in his first year wearing the New York Mets jersey. Throughout the season, he has faced scrutiny from fans and media alike, but now he’s also receiving criticism from an unexpected source: Little League players at the LLWS.
Canadian network TSN interviewed several kids from Vancouver (Canada) and Brisbane (Australia) ahead of the Little League Classic between the Mets and the Seattle Mariners. The question was simple: which MLB stars were they most excited to meet? While many expressed excitement about seeing their idols, one comment stood out.
A harsh critique of Soto
Misha Lee, pitcher and first baseman for Team Canada, admitted he was more excited to meet Cal Raleigh, the Mariners catcher who is on pace for a historic season with over 50 home runs as a starting catcher. When asked about Soto, Lee responded bluntly:
“Eh, he’s a little overrated. He’s okay,” the young player said casually.
The comment surprised many, especially considering Soto currently boasts a bWAR of 4.7 and an OPS of .881-numbers that still place him well above the league average.
A bittersweet season for Juan Soto
Despite his production, it’s true that the Dominican star hasn’t reached the same heights as in previous seasons. In 2023, he posted an OPS of .930, and in 2022, a spectacular .989-figures that now seem distant. For a player who signed a 15-year, $765 million contract, any dip in performance draws headlines and criticism.
Still, it’s undeniable that many teams would dream of having a hitter of his caliber, especially considering Soto is only 26 years old and has already made three Top 5 appearances in MVP voting since 2020.
Mets in the fight for the National League Wild Card
Meanwhile, the sporting challenges continue. Lee and his Canadian team must face Aruba in a key Little League World Series matchup. On the other hand, Soto and the Mets are up against the Washington Nationals, who come in with a 50-74 record.
New York is battling neck-and-neck for the third and final National League Wild Card spot, holding just a one-game lead over the Cincinnati Reds. It’s a situation that turns every game into a must-win for Soto and company.
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