Mets President David Stearns had predicted Juan Soto's signature long before the deal took place in December.
Stearns revealed his plans early in “The Pursuit,” a two-part documentary released by the Mets organization detailing Soto's acquisition in free agency along with the team's turnaround during the 2024 season. The first part will be released on the Mets YouTube channel on Friday.
“I think Juan Soto has been on all of our radar for a long time,” Stearns said. “In the end, we knew that the day would come when Soto would be available to all 30 Major League Baseball teams.”
Mets owner Steve Cohen agreed, saying he and Stearns had been screaming for Soto since Stearns took over as team president after the 2023 season.
“In fact, I think it started when David and I met from the beginning,” Cohen said. “We discussed Juan as a possibility when he became available.”
The Yankees were first able to land Soto in trade with the Padres, but now he belongs to other New York teams.
Stearns shared how management catered to Soto through the negotiation process, noting how the team used Citifield's video to appeal to the four All-Stars.
“One of the things we tried to do was customize and personalize the videos for agents and players who didn't have high targets. “Internally, our team did an amazing job putting together a video to show Juan what his future looks like with the Mets.”
In addition to the baseball part, the Mets also emphasized the importance of playing for the fans and creating a family atmosphere within the team.
It could be important for Soto, who was reportedly sought a suite from the Yankees, and was rejected.
The Mets' magical fall run to the NLCS was driven by a group that became closer as the season progressed.
“Around May and June, we all started buying this organic 'OMG',” outfielder Brandon Nemo said. “There was a meeting at JD. [Martinez] We talked about how we all need to go back to having fun. ”
The Mets players also found their early misery and success later in the season, identifying two-game splits with the Phillies in early June when NL East Rivals played overseas.
“I think London was definitely the biggest catalyst this year,” said Pete Alonso, a baseman. “I think London has served as a bonding experience for everyone.”
Part 2 of “Tracking” will be released only on the Mets YouTube channel on Friday, March 21st.
