Star Dominican outfielder Juan Soto has caused a stir in the baseball world after he was spotted practicing at first base during a pregame session between the New York Mets and the Yankees, sparking speculation about a possible position change in his Major League Baseball career.
Soto, known for his offensive prowess and presence in the outfield, has been criticized for his defensive performance in the outfield.
Although his bat remains one of the most feared weapons in MLB with a .266 batting average, 21 home runs and 50 runs batted in so far this season, his performance with the glove has left doubts in the New York organization.
With a contract worth more than $765 million and potentially reaching $800 million with incentives, the Mets are looking for ways to maximize the value of their investment. First base could represent a strategic solution: keeping Soto in the offensive lineup while reducing his defensive exposure in the outfield.
What does this move mean for the Mets?
Although the team currently has Pete Alonso, considered one of the best first basemen in the league, the possibility of Soto training at that position opens several doors. In the event of an injury to Alonso, an eventual departure from the team or simply to rotate players and keep them fresh, Soto could be a viable option to cover first base.
Moreover, such moves are not unusual in modern MLB, where defensive versatility is increasingly valued. Soto, at just 26 years old, still has room to adapt and evolve as a complete player.
Is it just a test or a real change?
For now, everything indicates that this is an exploratory phase. SNY cameras captured Soto taking ground balls at first base, suggesting that the coaching staff is evaluating his ability to play the position. A permanent switch has not been officially confirmed, but the fact that he is practicing there is significant.
This type of adjustment could also be part of a long-term strategy, thinking about the longevity of his career. Moving Soto to a less physically demanding position could help preserve his health and maintain his offensive production for more years.
The possible position change of Juan Soto to first base is a clear sign that the Mets are willing to experiment and adapt to get the most out of their roster. Although there is no definitive decision yet, the fact that Soto is practicing in a new position demonstrates his commitment to the team and his willingness to evolve as a ballplayer
Only time will tell if this experiment becomes a reality or if the Dominican will continue to patrol the outfield. What is certain is that Juan Soto remains one of the most watched and talked about figures in MLB 2025.
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