The New York Mets weren’t quick to announce where Juan Soto would be in their lineup.
The $765 million man could hit anywhere and be the best hitter in baseball from that spot, so why rush it?
But on Wednesday night, the Mets play a Spring Training game on the road against the Astros, their Opening Day opening. And the Mets put together a lineup that looks very much like it’ll look for the opener.
So while not official, it’s easy to read into: Soto will bat second for the Mets, just as he did for the Yankees.
After spending time in front of Aaron Judge, Soto is now bookended by Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso.
Soto is the classic hitter type who would’ve hit third for most of baseball’s history, but most analysis of late suggests your best hitter should go in the No. 2 spot. It’s the best combination of on-base ability, run production and the chance to get up one extra time in a chunk of games throughout the season.
It’ll be a potent top of the Mets order if it holds like it’s written out for Wednesday’s game, with young standout Mark Vientos fourth and dynamic outfielder Brandon Nimmo fifth.
Soto brings it all together, of course, and no hype for his first season with the Mets is too strong.
