BALTIMORE — Although Juan Soto was not included on the National League All-Star roster announced for the game in Atlanta on July 15, the New York Mets remain confident in his status as an elite player deserving of that honor. Soto’s strong performance during his first season with the Mets has earned high praise from both his manager and teammates, who consider the snub unwarranted.
Manager Carlos Mendoza expressed his frustration following the Mets’ 7-6 victory over Baltimore, emphasizing that Soto is undoubtedly an All-Star in their eyes. “He’s an All-Star for us,” Mendoza stated after the game, while holding out hope for possible late developments in Soto’s favor.
“It’s frustrating, but I’m hoping in the next couple of days we hear something and he makes it.”
Soto’s Impact on the Field Highlights His Value
Soto’s contribution in the recent game was decisive, as he delivered a sharp single on the first pitch of the 10th inning, driving in the winning run. His night’s performance was impressive, going 3 for 5 and raising his batting average to .269, alongside 21 home runs and 52 RBIs this season. Besides his power hitting, Soto leads the majors with 72 walks, demonstrating a keen eye at the plate.
Carlos Mendoza commented on Soto’s grasp of pitcher tendencies and his selective aggression.
“He’s got a pretty good understanding of what the pitchers are trying to do to him,”
Mendoza noted, adding,
“There is his awareness of the game, he’s going to see pitchers. There are times when he’s going to be aggressive. Tonight was one of those nights. First pitch in the 10th, he’s attacking.”
All-Star Streak Ends, But Teammates Insist He Belongs
Juan Soto had earned All-Star recognition every year since 2021, making appearances as a member of the Nationals, Padres, and Yankees. This season marks a break in that streak, but the Mets’ pitching ace Clay Holmes believes Soto’s performance remains worthy of the honor.
“What he’s done all year is just incredible, and the results are good enough,”
Holmes said.
“The consistency he’s showed up with, at the at-bats he’s taken, is more than an All-Star. He’s one of the best in the game and a big part of our lineup.”
Soto Reflects Calmly on the Snub Amid Team Support
Despite being left off the official NL All-Star roster, Soto has taken the decision with composure and perspective. After a recent loss to the Yankees, he acknowledged the unpredictable nature of baseball when it comes to team selections.
“Sometimes you’re gonna make it and sometimes you don’t,”
he said. “It’s just part of baseball.”
Significance and What to Watch Next
While Juan Soto’s omission from the National League All-Star roster may raise questions about selection criteria, the New York Mets’ staunch defense of his All-Star caliber highlights his integral role on the team. Soto’s consistent offensive output and maturity at the plate continue to make him a vital contributor, both for the Mets and in the broader MLB landscape. As the All-Star Game approaches, observers will be watching to see if any changes occur, but regardless, Soto’s impact is unquestioned within his club.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Juan Soto a free-agent in 2025?
A. He said, “I’ve just got to improve,” according to Jon Heyman of the New York Post. The 26-year-old is playing his first season with the Mets after he signed a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract as a free agent in December 2024.
Q. What is Juan Soto’s bat speed?
A. Both Ramos and Soto initially had bat speeds of over 75 mph, placing them in the top 25 for bat speed. Their speeds decreased to over 73 mph but remain among the top 75, significantly above the league average of 71.6 mph. Despite the decrease, Soto still maintains excellent bat speed.