Juan Soto’s much-anticipated debut with the New York Mets finally arrived on Opening Day, giving fans their first real look at the biggest offseason acquisition in franchise history.
New York would ultimately fall by a score of 3-1 to the Houston Astros at Daikin Park, with Soto striking out in a crucial ninth inning at-bat. Despite the loss, the 26-year-old superstar showcased exactly why the Mets invested so heavily in him this offseason.
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A Promising Start
Soto wasted no time getting on base in his Mets debut. In his first at-bat, he roped a single that registered an exit velocity of over 110 mph. He later worked two walks, displaying his elite plate discipline — the trait that takes him from good to great.
After the game, Soto spoke about his initial experience in a Mets uniform and how quickly he’s grown comfortable with his new teammates.
“For me, it was a good experience. These guys are amazing. We’ve been having a good time since spring training, so we’ve just got to bring that all the way.”
His presence in the No. 2 spot immediately adds firepower to the lineup, and though the Mets struggled to capitalize, his ability to get on base set the stage for run-scoring opportunities.
Facing One of the Best
Trailing by two in the ninth, Soto stepped up with two runners on, looking for his first big Mets moment. Facing elite closer Josh Hader, he worked the count full but ultimately struck out on a wicked slider to end the contest.
“We all want to do something in a big spot,” Soto said. “We’re all trying to get the knock and try to bring the runs and try to help the team either way, but for me, I don’t mind taking a walk right there. I have Pete [Alonso] behind me and he’s a really good power hitter, so I think we have a good chance there with a lefty-righty matchup. He just got me in that situation.”
Hader, one of the toughest lefties in the game, proved to be as dominant as ever.
“He’s one of the best closers in the league. His stuff is nasty,” Soto said.
“I was expecting to win the game,” Soto added. “It’s not how we wanted it.”
Trust in the Process
Despite the tough final at-bat, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza saw plenty to be encouraged by in Soto’s debut.
“As a competitor, he always wants to come through,” Mendoza said. “I thought he had some good at-bats today. Even on that one, he got him 3-0 and then 3-1, that pitch that he got there, he just missed it and then a pretty good pitch. But he’ll come through.”
Thursday’s starter, Clay Holmes, echoed that sentiment.
“We were right there, close,” Holmes said. “At the end of the day, if we’ve got Juan up with a chance to win the game, anybody likes those chances.”
Looking Ahead
The Mets and Soto didn’t get the result they wanted on Opening Day, but his presence in the lineup already looms large. His on-base prowess and ability to work deep counts makes him a game-changer for the club’s offense.
With 15 years still to come, Soto’s Mets career is only just beginning — and he’s no doubt going to be at the heart of this team’s success for a very long time.
