Despite leading the National League in offensive Wins Above Replacement (WAR) with a mark of 4.0, Juan Soto was not selected for this year’s MLB All-Star Game. The New York Mets outfielder’s slow start to the season contributed to his omission, even as he surpassed notable stars like Shohei Ohtani in key offensive metrics.
Soto, who signed a historic $765 million contract, initially struggled to find his rhythm in Queens. In the first 25 games, he posted a batting average of .233 with only three home runs. However, he rebounded sharply and currently leads National League outfielders in on-base percentage (.399), runs scored (66), and walks (72).
Because of his early-season difficulties, Soto was excluded from the National League outfield finalists roster, which featured Ronald Acuna Jr., Pete Crowe-Armstrong, and Kyle Tucker. The fan voting segment also did not secure him a spot, making it harder for the 26-year-old to break into the reserves, which were ultimately assigned to Corbin Carroll, Fernando Tatis Jr., and rookie James Wood by teams, players, and managers.
Chris Rose Questions Fernando Tatis Jr.’s Selection over Juan Soto
On the Baseball Today podcast, analyst Chris Rose expressed that although Fernando Tatis Jr. earned his place on the All-Star roster for his outstanding defense, it would have made strategic sense to include Juan Soto instead. Rose suggested that Soto’s history with the Washington Nationals, divisional rivals of the Atlanta Braves, could add an exciting dynamic by energizing the Atlanta fan base during the game.
“There are two guys in the sport who have an above .900 OPS and did not make the All-Star team, and he is one of them. The guy I would take off is Tatis. And I love watching Fernando Tatis play, so I understand why he’s there, but he doesn’t even have an .800 OPS. Soto, I get it. He’s not the defender. He doesn’t run the bases the way that Tatis does.
—Chris Rose, MLB Analyst
“But I also love it when either hometown guys play — so like when Matt Olson’s there, Ronald Acuña is there. And I love it when the arch-enemy has to wear their home whites in Atlanta for, like, a … that’s going to be awesome. I want to hear him get booed — like, that’s fun,” Rose said.
—Chris Rose, MLB Analyst
Juan Soto Reflects on Missing His First All-Star Appearance Since Debut
Juan Soto had been a consistent All-Star since his full MLB season debut in 2019. Although he missed the selection this year, the Dominican outfielder remains focused and positive, ready to move forward with the Mets.
“For me, I try to play as hard as I can and help the team and enjoy the moment,” Soto told the New York Post.
—Juan Soto, New York Mets Outfielder
“Everyone wants to be an All-Star and live the experience of being there, but this year it didn’t happen. I was glad I was able to be there four years in a row. If I didn’t make it this year, it’s no big deal. I’ll come back stronger next year.”
—Juan Soto, New York Mets Outfielder
Despite the snub, Soto continues to be a leading offensive force for the Mets. He recently delivered a pivotal go-ahead RBI in extra innings, helping New York secure a 7-6 victory over the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday.
Implications of Soto’s Omission and What’s Ahead
The decision to include Fernando Tatis Jr. over Juan Soto highlights the balancing act MLB faces between offensive performance and defensive skill when assembling All-Star rosters. While Tatis provides strong defensive contributions, Soto’s offensive metrics underscore a substantial impact on his team’s successes during the season.
Soto’s absence from the All-Star Game may fuel further conversations among fans and analysts about selection criteria, especially given his resurgence after a slow start. Looking ahead, Soto’s commitment to returning stronger next season suggests he will continue to be a vital player to watch within the National League and for the New York Mets.