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The New York Mets are set for a much-needed boost as Juan Soto prepares to make his return from the injured list this Wednesday. Soto’s comeback could not come at a more crucial time, as the Mets are currently grappling with an alarming 11-game losing streak—their longest since 2004. After enduring this rough patch, Soto’s impact on the team might be exactly what they need to break the skid and regain their momentum.
Manager Carlos Mendoza has confirmed that Soto participated in baseball activities before Tuesday’s series opener against the Minnesota Twins. The strategy leading into Soto’s return will involve alternating him between designated hitter and left field for his first two games back. Mendoza emphasized that the team is mindful of Soto’s health; they won’t overwork him initially, balancing playing time to ensure he remains injury-free.
“We’re not going to play him back-to-back 18 innings, at least on the field,” Mendoza said. “He’s going to need days off as well. But hopefully [Wednesday] is the beginning of it with him in the lineup and then we’ll go from there.”
Soto, who is in the second year of a staggering 15-year, $765 million contract, was off to a great start before his injury. In just eight games, he boasted a .355 batting average, with one home run and five RBIs. However, a left quad strain sustained while running the bases against the San Francisco Giants on April 3 led to his current stint on the injured list. This marks the first injury-related absence for Soto since 2021, when a left shoulder strain kept him sidelined.
The Mets initially thrived without Soto, winning their first three games following his injury. However, their performance over the last 11 games has been dismal, as they have been outscored 62-19 and are batting a mere .200 during the streak. The Mets have also been shut out three times and struggled offensively, with only two players—Francisco Alvarez and Luis Robert Jr.—hitting better than .250 with more than 50 plate appearances. Veteran players like Francisco Lindor, Marcus Semien, and Bo Bichette have combined for a disappointing .218 batting average, exhibiting the overall struggle the team is facing.
Despite looking ahead to Soto’s anticipated return, Mendoza stressed the importance of shared responsibility among the players. “It definitely helps, but we cannot put all the pressure on one player,” he noted, emphasizing the collective effort needed to pull the team out of this tough spot.
Additionally, the Mets’ pitching rotation appears to be receiving a lift, as Christian Scott is set to be recalled from Triple-A Syracuse to start against the Twins. Although Scott is 0-2 with a 5.27 ERA, he’s shown promise with 17 strikeouts and just two walks in his first 13⅔ innings following Tommy John surgery last year. Mendoza expressed optimism regarding Scott’s return, stating, “We knew it was just going to be a matter of time before he was going to be helping us here with the big-league club.”
As the Mets look to turn the tide and restore their season, Juan Soto’s return is a pivotal moment that fans hope will signal a resurgence for their faltering team. Will Soto’s presence in the lineup fuel the offensive fire that the Mets desperately need? Only time will tell.
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury did Juan Soto suffer?
Juan Soto suffered a left quad strain, which kept him sidelined for several games.
When will Juan Soto return to the field?
Soto is expected to return to the lineup on Wednesday after his time on the injured list.
How long has the Mets’ losing streak lasted?
The Mets are currently on an 11-game losing streak, the longest they’ve faced since 2004.
What are Soto’s stats before his injury?
Before his injury, Soto was hitting .355 with one home run and five RBIs in just eight games.
How is the Mets’ overall performance this season?
The Mets have struggled extensively, including being outscored 62-19 during their losing streak.
