Juan Soto entered the 2025 season under intense scrutiny after securing the largest contract in Major League Baseball history, a $765 million deal spanning 15 years with the New York Mets. Despite high expectations, Soto has faced difficulties adjusting, as reflected in a .231 batting average with 28 RBIs and nine home runs early in the season. On Saturday, he broke a 17-game home run drought by hitting a clutch homer against the Colorado Rockies, showing signs of potential recovery.
Soto’s approach at the plate has been notably passive, with a career-low swing rate of 34.3% and the fewest pitches observed within the strike zone at 21.9%. These statistics highlight the challenges he is facing as he acclimates to his new team and league pressures.
Derek Jeter Calls for Support and Patience from Mets Fans
Derek Jeter, the iconic Yankees legend, shared his perspective during a FOX broadcast, acknowledging the pressure that Juan Soto endures as the Mets’ marquee player. Jeter reminded fans that Soto’s long-term presence is a significant asset for the franchise and encouraged patience through the early struggles.
“I tell you, all of the Mets fans are very concerned right now, because this is the guy—the big acquisition—who’s single-handedly gonna take you to the World Series and help you win a championship. You stole him from the Yankees, right? Is it fair? Absolutely not. But that’s the expectation.” —Derek Jeter, former Yankees shortstop
“Look, Juan Soto is going to be there for a long time. We were joking earlier—my two oldest are in first grade and second grade. They’ll be finishing college, and Juan Soto will still be playing for the New York Mets. He’s going to be there for a long time. He’s going to hit, he’s gonna bounce back, because he’s just too good of a player,” —Derek Jeter, former Yankees shortstop
Alex Rodriguez Highlights Impact of Absence of Aaron Judge Behind Soto
Alex Rodriguez, Jeter’s former teammate and fellow baseball analyst, also weighed in on Soto’s situation. Rodriguez noted that the pressure of performing in New York is significant, especially when shifting from one New York team to another. He emphasized that Soto’s previous success with the Yankees was partially aided by the presence of Aaron Judge, who provided protection in the lineup.
“[The pressure] is real. Now he’s doing it across town. You doesn’t have the equity you built in New York last year. You took them to the World Series. Now you have no choice. You don’t have Aaron Judge. You don’t have that company. You have a different set of guys.” —Alex Rodriguez, former MLB player
“But look, I played there. That pressure is never going to go away. Over 15 or 16 years, Juan Soto will get used to it. He’s a great player, and I believe he’ll get it right. But it will be different than it was in New York, where he had a much smaller park and Aaron Judge offensively behind as a shadow,” —Alex Rodriguez, former MLB player
Mets Maintain Strong Standings Despite Soto’s Early Slump
While Juan Soto works through his early-season struggles, the New York Mets remain competitive, holding a 36-22 record. They share the lead in the National League East division with the Philadelphia Phillies, demonstrating a balanced team effort despite the attention on Soto’s performance. The Mets’ strong position in the standings underscores their depth and ability to contend even as their star player adjusts to new challenges.
The Long-Term Outlook for Soto and the Mets’ Championship Hopes
The current difficulties underscore the immense pressure Soto faces as a record-breaking signing expected to lead the Mets to a World Series title. However, veterans like Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez express confidence in Soto’s talent and resilience, suggesting his current slump is temporary. With his contract extending into the next decade and a half, Soto’s trajectory will shape the Mets’ future competitiveness. Patience from fans and continued support from the team will be crucial as Soto aims to regain his peak form and fulfill the lofty expectations placed upon him.