The wait is over. The 2025 MLB season kicks off this Thursday, and teams are eager to prove their worth as they set their sights on October’s title. Among the teams generating significant buzz this season, the New York Mets, with newly acquired Juan Soto, are considered one of the top contenders to beat.
But it’s not just Soto’s addition that has Mets fans excited. The team boasts several standout players who could help lead the charge toward a World Series title. However, the mistakes from last season remain fresh in the minds of manager Carlos Mendoza and his squad, and overcoming those will be key to their success.
As the Mets prepare for their season opener against the Houston Astros, Soto sat down with ESPN’s Jeff Passan to discuss the upcoming challenge. In a conversation that took an unexpected turn, Soto shared a bold take just days before the Mets’ Opening Day in 2025.
When Passan asked Soto about whom he considers the greatest hitter of all time, the slugger’s response was as surprising as it was confident: “I’m the best hitter of all time. I want you to prove me wrong,” Soto said, leaving Passan and the rest of the interview crew laughing in disbelief.
Juan Soto #22 of the New York Mets poses for a portrait at Clover Park on February 20, 2025 in Port St. Lucie, Florida.
Soto’s motivation for the upcoming season
With high expectations from both fans and himself, Soto opened up about his approach to the upcoming season. As a player with a significant contract, Soto understands the pressure and is determined to challenge himself to deliver his best performance.
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“When you set the bar that high and set your goals in a big way, it brings out the best in you,” Soto said. “It’s easy to set those goals, but it’s not going to be easy to reach them. But I’m definitely going to try my best to be out there.”
Soto will be one of the key players to watch in the Mets’ season opener on Thursday. With the self-proclaimed title of “GOAT hitter,” the expectations are high, and as he admitted, “It’s not going to be easy.”
Soto names the player’s career he aims to follow
Soto, eager to cement his place among MLB’s all-time greats, knows he’ll need more than just consistent hits to achieve that goal. Titles and his impact throughout the season are also critical to his legacy.
When asked which player’s career he hopes to emulate, Soto named Freddie Freeman. “I feel like he [Freeman] is one of the best hitters I’ve ever seen,” Soto said. “There are a lot of guys like Pujols, it’s just ridiculous. My childhood has been filled with great hitters, but I see it every day now since I’ve been in the league.”
