Juan Soto delivered an outstanding 2024 season performance and Mets impact after leaving the New York Yankees for the New York Mets in the offseason. Before signing the largest contract in baseball history with the Mets, Soto was a beloved figure among fans at Yankee Stadium. In 2024, he posted a .288 batting average, smashed 41 home runs, and drove in 109 RBIs, playing a crucial role in guiding the Yankees to their first World Series appearance since 2009.
Despite fans hoping that Soto would remain with the Yankees, the Mets outbid the Bronx team during free agency, securing his services. However, some voices in Major League Baseball argue that the Yankees are not feeling his absence as much as expected. MLB insider Keith McPherson recently challenged the narrative that Soto was responsible for carrying New York to the World Series.
“I’m so tired of hearing that Juan Soto carried the Yankees to the World Series,” McPherson said on Friday, via EFAN Sports Radio. “Why didn’t he win ALCS MVP? Come up with something else.”
Juan Soto’s Early Season Struggles and Focus on Improvement
Following the massive contract with the Mets, expectations for Soto were sky-high, but he experienced a slow start with inconsistent hitting early in the season. He remained confident, emphasizing that his success at the plate was just a matter of time, showing his commitment to improving and contributing to his new team.
“I don’t feel any pressure, I would say it’s more about coming through for the team,” Soto said on May 30, via SNY.
“You know, everybody’s hoping I come through, and I want to help the team either way — try to get some wins. I know I’ve been struggling and I haven’t been there for them, but I will be. it’s a matter of time. We don’t know when it’s going to come through, but I’m just going to keep working on it.”
As the Mets aim to capture the NL East title and make a strong push for the World Series in October, fans eagerly anticipate Soto returning to peak form and delivering the level of performance that justified his record-breaking deal.
What Juan Soto’s Season Means for the Mets and Yankees Moving Forward
Juan Soto’s 2024 season performance and Mets impact have set high standards for the franchise’s future, though his early inconsistency shows the adjustment period even elite players face after major transitions. The Yankees’ ability to reach the World Series without what some consider a fully dominant Soto underscores their overall team strength. Meanwhile, the Mets continue to rely on Soto’s potential contribution as a cornerstone for their championship aspirations.
This dynamic highlights the ongoing competition between New York’s two MLB teams and the significance of star players in shifting the balance of power within the league. How Soto’s performance evolves in the coming months will likely influence both teams’ playoff hopes and the broader narrative of the 2024 season.