New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor has taken a supportive stance toward right fielder Juan Soto, who has been underperforming despite high expectations this season. With the Mets locked in a tight race in the National League East, Lindor emphasized the importance of fans standing behind Soto amid his current slump.
Soto, who signed a monumental 15-year, $765 million contract in the offseason that surpassed the New York Yankees’ offer, is batting .224 with eight home runs and 25 RBIs after 55 games. In contrast, Lindor has posted a stronger .269 average with 10 home runs and 31 RBIs, while also leading the Mets with 60 hits.
Mets At the Heart of a Competitive NL East, Soto’s Performance Under Scrutiny
The Mets remain two games behind the Philadelphia Phillies in the NL East standings and the overall National League race. New York has been formidable at home with a 21-7 record, yet their 13-15 road play contrasts sharply. As the team prepares to host the Colorado Rockies for a three-game series beginning Friday, hopes are high to build momentum.
Lindor, who joined the Mets from the Cleveland Guardians in early 2021, noted the critical role fan encouragement plays. He told NJ.com’s Manny Gómez,
“I encourage every fan to come out … and give (Soto) love,”
adding,
“They’ve done that for me, they’ve done that for other players here. Continue to give him love, he deserves it.”
Upcoming Schedule and Pitching Matchup Highlight Mets’ Push Forward
Following the home series against the Rockies, the Mets will travel to face the Los Angeles Dodgers and then return to host the Washington Nationals and Tampa Bay Rays. A road trip to play the Atlanta Braves is also on the horizon. Left-handed pitcher David Peterson, holding a 3-2 record with a 2.79 ERA, is slated to start Friday’s game in New York.
With Juan Soto’s performance closely monitored by fans and the organization alike, this stretch of games could prove decisive for his confidence and the Mets’ postseason aspirations. Francisco Lindor’s public backing illustrates a united clubhouse aiming to overcome the pressures of a long season while maintaining focus on team success.