Four-Time All-Star Aims to Push the Mets Higher in the 2026 Batting Statistics
Juan Soto returned to the New York Mets lineup for Wednesday, April 22nd, game against the Minnesota Twins and immediately proved to be a difference-maker. His return helped the Mets break their 12-game losing streak with a 3-2 victory. Before the four-time all-star’s return, New York struggled to even maneuver runners on base and create scoring opportunities. With tonight’s win, the Mets now have a 5-4 record when Soto is in the lineup this season.
Before his injury against the San Francisco Giants on April 3rd, 2026, when he suffered a right calf strain, Soto got off to a hot start. In his return, the four-time all-star went one for three with a walk and had several quality at-bats, looking much like he did pre-injury. His first at-bat was a productive flyout that moved Bo Bichette to third base after a leadoff double, which ultimately led to a Francisco Lindor RBI single. His second at-bat was a hard-hit line drive out. This game showcased Soto's impact in the lineup.
Prior to tonight’s win, the Mets’ offense was the sole reason behind their losing streak. During the 12-game skid, New York’s offense was historically poor, averaging only 1.83 runs per game and falling to a 7-16 record. They posted a league-worst .640 OPS against fastballs and scored two or fewer runs in nine of their 12 losses. The Mets have been ranked near the bottom in nearly every offensive category.
Soto is expected to fix the Mets' offensive struggles throughout the season. Before his injury, he was batting .355 with a .928 OPS. His career-high RBI rate suggests he can help boost the team's meager scoring output. Batting second, the four-time all-star provides high on-base capability, elite plate discipline, and consistent opportunities to drive in runs. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza was forced to make changes to the top of the order due to the offensive struggles, but Soto’s presence in the second spot provides much-needed stability and power.
Handling velocity has also been an issue; without Soto, the Mets recorded a league-worst .642 OPS against fastballs and a -6 run value on pitches over 97 mph. The four-time all-star’s elite plate discipline and ability to hit high velocity are expected to counter this weakness. He averaged .635 RBIs per game in his career before the injury, and projections suggest his presence alone could increase the Mets' nightly run production by roughly 33%. Soto also led the NL with 127 walks in 2025, underscoring his exceptional plate discipline.
