The list of participants for the upcoming MLB All-Star Game in Atlanta continues to generate controversy, especially around the initial exclusion of New York Mets superstar Juan Soto. Despite an inconsistent start to the season, the Dominican has demonstrated an elite level of offense that many feel is worthy of a place in the Summer Classic. In this context, MLB analyst Chris Rose has been blunt in pointing out who should make way for Soto to be included.
Rose’s opinion, expressed on the Baseball Today podcast, is not only based on statistics, but also adds a “fun” reason that would further fuel the already intense atmosphere at Truist Park, home of the Atlanta Braves, the Mets’ arch-rivals.
Juan Soto had a tough start to the season, hitting .232 in April and .219 in May. However, his performance has been stellar since then, establishing himself as the hitter the Mets invested $765 million in. In June, Soto hit .322 with 11 home runs and a 1.196 OPS, as well as posting an offensive WAR of 4.0, leading the National League, surpassing even figures such as Shohei Ohtani. His good form reinforces the argument that he should have been included.
Who is leaving for Soto’s entry?
The candidate to leave for Chris Rose is clear: Fernando Tatis Jr, arguing that while he was selected for his outstanding defensive prowess, Soto should have been the choice for his offensive superiority. “There are two guys in the sport who have an OPS over .900 and didn’t make the All-Star team, and Soto is one of them. The one I would take out is Tatis… I understand why he’s there, but he doesn’t even have an OPS of .800”, the analyst explained.
Beyond the numbers, the analyst offered a humorous reason for his preference. Alluding to the divisional rivalry, Rose expressed his desire to see Soto in Atlanta: “I also love when the arch-enemy has to wear their home whites in Atlanta… That’s going to be amazing. I want to hear him get booed, that’s fun!”. This sentiment is even shared by Mets player Francisco Lindor, who previously joked about the idea of the “four Mets” going to Atlanta to be booed by the home crowd.
Soto’s reaction
For his part, Juan Soto has maintained a mature stance on the exclusion. “For me, I try to play as hard as I can and help the team and enjoy the moment,” Soto told the New York Post, adding that it’s not a “big deal” if he wasn’t selected this year and that he’ll come back “stronger next year.”
However, an opportunity could open up for Soto. Ronald Acuna Jr., one of the outfielders selected for the National League, has been reported with lower back tightness. A final decision on his availability will be made soon. If Acuna is unable to participate, the way would be paved for Juan Soto to receive the deserved call.
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