Juan Soto Discusses Mets’ Transformation for Upcoming Season

PORT ST. LUCIE — Juan Soto isn’t exactly a puzzle to piece together. The Mets have revamped their roster significantly and seem to be in a better position compared to last season, when they fell short of making the playoffs.

“We had a great team last year,” Soto shared during spring training on Sunday. “But I really think we’re even better this year. It feels awesome. Sure, we played competitively last season, but this is a fresh start. Last year’s behind us, and no matter how things unfold, our focus is solely on this season.”

Key players like Pete Alonso, Brandon Nimmo, Jeff McNeil, and Edwin Diaz are no longer with the team.

On the other hand, the new roster boasts talents such as Bo Bichette and Jorge Polanco alongside Soto and Francisco Lindor.

Alonso’s exit, having signed a lucrative five-year deal for $155 million with the Orioles, could have significant repercussions for Soto, as Alonso was positioned right behind him in the lineup.

Despite Alonso’s presence, Soto did lead Major League Baseball with 127 walks in the previous season.

Manager Carlos Mendoza has mentioned that Bichette could be a solid candidate for the No. 3 spot in the batting order, right next to Soto.

“We’re getting Bo; I believe in him,” Soto indicated. “He’s a fantastic hitter, capable of both home runs and maintaining an impressive batting average. Plus, I think he’s a pretty good defensive player.”

As he gears up for his second season with the Mets on a staggering 15-year, $765 million contract, Soto is set to switch from right field to left field—a position he played early on with the Nationals and more recently with the Padres.

Mendoza has already broached this positional change with Soto, who will also be playing left field at the World Baseball Classic representing the Dominican Republic.

“Mendoza asked me if I’m okay with that shift. I told him I’m comfortable wherever. Whatever helps the team, I’m all in,” Soto said.

He noted that when he agreed to the switch, the Mets were actively seeking outfielders and there were limited options available—mostly for right field.

Ultimately, the team went after Kyle Tucker, who landed with the Dodgers, and then brought in Luis Robert Jr. from the White Sox to handle center field duties.

This has left a gap in right field, which could potentially be filled by Carson Benge, the top candidate for the role.

“I’ve heard great things about him as an athlete,” Soto remarked. “He can play center and right, but I haven’t really seen much of his hitting yet. Spring training will be telling, and I’m eager to see what he can contribute.”

Statcast data shows that Soto ranked low in defensive metrics last season, with a -12 outs below average, placing him in the bottom tier among MLB fielders.

He acknowledged that enhancing his defense is one of his targets after achieving personal bests in home runs (43) and stolen bases (38), finishing third in National League MVP voting with a slash line of .263/.396/.525.

“I think improving my defense will be a key focus for me. I want it to match my performance in base running and hitting,” Soto stated. “Raising it is never simple, but it’s something I’m committed to working on.”

Reports suggest there were some tensions between Soto and Lindor last season.

Recently, Mendoza has pointed out that last year’s clubhouse atmosphere might have been a bit too “corporate.”

Soto was asked last year how he felt about the team’s culture at that time.

“That’s behind us now. We’ve moved on,” Soto responded. “Our eyes are set on 2026.”

So, how can the Mets avoid similar clubhouse issues this year?

“Have fun, avoid the drama, and just focus on the game,” Soto said. “Let’s work towards winning.”