Overview

• Juan Soto's traditional stats have dipped in his first 49 games with the Mets, with a .247 batting average and .803 OPS, sparking criticism from fans and media.
• Advanced metrics, including elite walk rates and exit velocity, suggest Soto’s slump may be temporary, with his agent Scott Boras predicting a 90- to 120-day adjustment period.
• Owner Steve Cohen and manager Carlos Mendoza publicly defended Soto, emphasizing the ups and downs of a baseball season and urging patience with their star player.
• Criticism of Soto has intensified after perceived lack of hustle during recent games, as well as reports of dissatisfaction stemming from his departure from the Yankees.
• Amid Soto’s challenges, the Mets face uncertainty with Pete Alonso’s potential opt-out, raising questions about their long-term roster strategy and financial flexibility.