The New York Mets are heading into the MLB season with excitement and expectations at an all-time high. A major reason for this optimism is 26-year-old Juan Soto, whom they signed to a massive 15-year, $765 million contract after his former team, the New York Yankees, fell short in the World Series last season.
Though the Los Angeles Dodgers ultimately took home the championship, the Mets made a strong run to the NLCS. Now, with many of their key players, including Pete Alonso, returning, they’ve put together one of the most talented rosters in baseball.
This week, spring training began, and while pitchers and catchers reported first, several position players showed up early. Soto was among them, and his arrival at the facility on Sunday morning captured plenty of attention from Mets and MLB fans alike. As he walked in, he delivered a brief three-word message that quickly drew attention.
“Good morning, everybody!” Soto said.
“Mets fans waking up to this? Yeah, it’s gonna be a great season.” A fan said.
“It sure is a great morning to be a Mets fan.” Another fan posted.
One fan commented, “been waiting on this one.”
“This is their World Series, watching this guy show up…” One more fan said.
New York Mets right fielder Juan Soto
© Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Soto is set to be the starting right fielder for the Mets, adding an elite presence to the top half of their lineup. Last season, he batted .288 with 166 hits, 41 homers, 109 RBIs, and a .989 OPS.
Over his seven-year MLB career, Soto has made four All-Star appearances, won a World Series in 2019, and earned five Silver Slugger awards. With a career batting average of .285, he has hit 201 homers and driven in 592 RBIs.
