When the New York Mets signed Juan Soto to a blockbuster 15-year, $765 million contract, expectations soared.
Soto, a generational talent with a World Series ring and a batting title, was supposed to be the team’s shining beacon. But two months into the season, the picture looks different.
Soto recently talked with ESPN’s Jorge Castillo about his struggles.
“I still need a little more time,” Soto admitted.
On the surface, it sounds like a typical adjustment phase – but the reality feels more complicated.
The dynamic, confident player Mets fans remember from his time with the Yankees and Padres seems muted. His numbers reflect that shift: a .229/.367/.430 slash line through 62 games, a stark contrast to last year’s .288/.419/.569 in New York. While his walk rate remains elite, the spark, energy, and joy seem noticeably absent.
Mets winning without their big star’s spark
Despite Soto’s struggles, the Mets are winning. Sitting atop the NL East at 39-24, the team is thriving – but Soto’s transition has been far from smooth. His demeanor has noticeably changed since leaving the Yankees, a team he reportedly wanted to remain with.
Although he hasn’t said so outright, the difference between the fiery Soto last year and the subdued figure this season is clear.
Critics have cited a “lack of hustle,” noting the disappearance of Soto’s signature Soto Shuffle and more transactional teammate interactions. For a franchise that needs its star to inspire, Soto’s body language is speaking volumes – revealing what his bat currently isn’t.
This subdued presence, combined with the pressure of his massive contract and New York’s intense spotlight, has fueled speculation about whether deeper issues are at play. Patience can only stretch so far.
Soto isn’t a bust. His power remains evident, and he still draws walks at an elite clip. But when he says he needs “a little more time,” it raises an important question: did the Mets acquire a player whose heart may not fully be in Queens?
Maybe he misses the stability and culture of the Yankees. Maybe he misses playing alongside Aaron Judge. Or perhaps he’s struggling to find his place on a team that, while winning, lacks a fully defined identity. Players like Pete Alonso, Francisco Lindor, and Brandon Nimmo each bring something unique – but none yet match Soto’s energy or vibe.
The Mets knew what they were signing up for with Soto – the pressure, the rewards, and the challenges. This isn’t a situation to wait out. The organization paid for playoff heroics, not a slow adjustment period.
October will reveal the truth. Soto has always thrived on the postseason stage, and that’s when he’ll have his chance to change the narrative. Until then, every at-bat, every word, every gesture will be under scrutiny – the price of stardom in Queens.
He says he needs time. Mets fans hope he still has enough left to shine.
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