The Mets are going through a tough time despite their 30-20 record, and the inconsistent performance of star Juan Soto has raised concerns. The hitter, who arrived with high expectations to revitalize the lineup, has failed to find his rhythm, evidenced by a significant drop in his batting average and lack of extra-base hits in recent games. Beyond the criticism, the situation becomes more complex with public comments from his own manager about the need to improve his effort on the bases, especially after a game at Fenway Park where his performance was questioned.
In the last nine games, Soto has managed a batting average of just .156 and has not hit any extra-base hits. However, he maintains a respectable on-base percentage (.374) and an OPS of .804, indicators that his potential remains intact despite the slump. Fans and the press have focused on him, especially after an erratic performance in the Subway Series, where he was booed by Yankees fans, and in Boston, where a poorly calculated fly ball raised doubts about his commitment on the field.
CC Sabathia’s perspective: “Adapting to New York takes time”
Amid the criticism, Soto has found an unexpected defender in CC Sabathia, a former Yankees star pitcher and respected figure in the city. In a recent interview with the New York Post, Sabathia shared an insight that sheds light on the difficult adjustment of players in New York: “I feel like stars who go to the Mets take about a year to adjust. So I think Soto might be the same way,” he said. This support is significant for a player who faces immense pressure in a city where the spotlight never goes out.
Sabathia’s support is no coincidence. With experience in the Big Apple, he knows that the atmosphere and demands can affect the initial performance of stars. Soto, although he has had difficult moments, has also shown flashes of his talent, such as when he helped the Mets overcome Boston with a sacrifice fly. Patience could be the key for the outfielder to shine again and establish himself as a key part of the team.
Mike Piazza and the value of the little things
Another person who understands the situation Soto is going through is Mike Piazza, a Mets legend and Hall of Famer, who also suffered the pressure and criticism during his early years in New York. Piazza advised the young hitter: “Do the little things right and you’ll get your confidence back. What Juan Soto is going through is practically a rite of passage in New York,” he said. This advice underscores the importance of consistency and focusing on details that, while simple, can make a difference in performance.
Piazza highlights that the path to winning over the New York fans is arduous and full of challenges, but not impossible. He himself experienced boos and doubts before becoming an idol, and now sees in Soto a talent with the potential to overcome this stage if he remains patient and focused. The immediate future will be key for Soto to prove that he is up to the expectations and can lead the Mets to new victories.
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