Juan Soto’s name was a constant in the MLB All-Star Game, as from his debut with the Nationals to his stints with the Padres and now with the New York Mets, the Dominican outfielder had not missed this mid-season event. However, in 2025, the situation changed unexpectedly and Soto was not selected, ending his streak of four consecutive years as an All-Star
The most surprising thing is not his absence, but that it happened just when Soto signed one of the biggest contracts in baseball history, which amounts to $765 million dollars.
With such a large sum of money, the pressure was inevitable, and although his start to the season was discreet, the Dominican knew how to recover in time. In fact, in the last 34 games before Sunday, his OPS was 1.211, an elite mark that once again positioned him as one of the most feared bats in the circuit.
Why is Juan Soto not going to be in the MLB All-Star Game?
In statements after being left out of the stellar roster, Juan Soto was honest: “It wasn’t enough. I started slow, and that counts. Still, I’m proud of how I came back,” he said, showing self-criticism and without making excuses.
The numbers back up his statements, as he currently has 21 home runs, 51 RBIs, a .263 average and is the National League leader in walks.
In addition, he is second in on-base percentage (OBP) and third in runs scored. Despite all that, the votes went in another direction, favoring names such as Fernando Tatis Jr., Corbin Carroll and James Wood.
However, the Mets will be represented in the All-Star game with Pete Alonso, Francisco Lindor and Edwin Diaz confirmed for the mid-season classic in Atlanta.
Players who will not be in the MLB All-Star Game
The case of Soto is not unique, as several players with outstanding seasons were also excluded from the 2025 All-Star, generating debate among fans and analysts.
J.P. Crawford of the Seattle Mariners: At 30 years of age, he is having his best offensive campaign with a .285 average and .386 OBP, in addition to excelling in advanced defensive metrics. However, playing for a team with four call-ups already, it is likely that the decision was made to dispense with the Californian shortstop.
Joe Ryan of the Minnesota Twins: With an 8-4 record, 2.76 ERA and 116 strikeouts in 104 innings, he has been a key piece in the rotation. However, his effort was not enough to receive the call.
CJ Abrams of the Washington Nationals: The young shortstop is hitting .285 with 12 home runs and 19 stolen bases. His OPS leads all National League shortstops, but he was overlooked, possibly because of his still-developing defense.
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