Mets’ Unexpected Rise and Struggles
Following a lackluster start to the 2024 MLB season, the New York Mets surged and captured a surprising playoff spot, culminating in an NLCS defeat against the eventual World Series champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers. Fueled by utility player Jose “Candelita” Iglesias’s hit song, “OMG,” the atmosphere in the Mets clubhouse was electric. After years of frustrating seasons, there finally seemed to be genuine optimism for the Mets to secure their first World Series in almost 40 years.
A Major Signing
The Mets’ front office supported the team’s impressive showing by acquiring the top free agent of the 2024 class: Dominican superstar outfielder, Juan Soto. After an intense bidding competition involving his former team (the New York Yankees), Soto chose to settle in Queens for the next 15 years with a staggering $765 million contract.
Juan Soto’s Impact
While Juan Soto’s career trajectory could fill a novel, I find it more intriguing to examine how his presence has impacted teams since his arrival.
Mets’ Disappointing 2025 Season
As the 2025 season unfolded, the Mets fell far short of expectations, ultimately missing the playoffs altogether to the Cincinnati Reds. How could a team that reached the NLCS and landed a top-five player in the world completely miss the playoffs? It doesn’t seem plausible.
An Unlikely Pattern
Baseball often hinges on marginal differences, contributing to unpredictable outcomes. However, the Mets’ struggles appear almost unbelievable, especially given a similar scenario with Juan Soto. Two seasons ago, the San Diego Padres were contenders. They had acquired Soto before the trade deadline and made a push to the NLCS, yet they failed to make the playoffs in the following season.
Questioning the Investment
While I don’t blame Soto entirely for this, his trading away subsequently improved the Padres’ success, raising questions about his role. Despite impressive stats, including a sixth-place finish in MVP voting in 2023, his contributions did not yield the expected team success. Soto is undoubtedly a talented player, compared to the likes of Ted Williams, but his impact on winning remains questionable.
Defensive Concerns and Leadership Qualities
Soto’s deficiencies—like his defensive struggles and occasional passiveness—factor into the discussion. The Mets may now grapple with their decision to invest heavily in Soto, whose value and leadership fade compared to that of players like Francisco Lindor, who is not only a more complete player but also contributes in ways that matter during critical games. Investing so much in a 26-year-old designated hitter without playoff success could further hinder the Mets’ World Series ambitions.
