Juan Soto sheds light on mid-game exchange with MacKenzie Gore following Mets extra-inning triumph

Juan Soto has begun to make a significant impact for the New York Mets. In a recent matchup against his former team, the Washington Nationals, Soto dazzled with a home run and two RBIs, crucial to the Mets’ extra-inning victory. During the game, Soto had a brief exchange with Nationals’ left-handed pitcher MacKenzie Gore and later shared insights from their conversation with the media.

Nothing brings more satisfaction to a player than facing their former team, and it’s even more rewarding to excel in those matchups. Soto led the charge for the Mets in the series opener against the Nationals, delivering hits, runs, RBIs, and a homer, much to the delight of the Mets’ fan base.

Soto and Gore share a history, having played 100 games together for the Nationals before Soto departed for the San Diego Padres. Their long-standing connection shone through, highlighting the mutual respect between them.

In the first game of the series, after Soto launched his homer for the Mets, he made his way around the bases without directing any intense glances at Gore. After the game, Soto lightheartedly recounted their interaction. “We were just saying hi to each other, that’s all,” he joked with the media.

Soto leading key stats in this regular season

As the holder of the highest-paid contract in MLB and sports history, Soto’s journey this regular season had its challenges. Initially, Soto wasn’t performing at his peak, but his recent improvements have been remarkable. Now, he’s topping two crucial statistical categories.

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The first stat he’s leading across the entire league is bases on balls (BB), having recorded 55 walks so far this year. The second stat sees him leading the National League in grounding into double plays (GIDP) with 13. While these might not seem impressive at first glance, they highlight a shift in his approach and have contributed to elevating his overall game this season.

Soto’s season stats with the Mets

Soto is making a significant impact in his inaugural season with the New York Mets. As a dependable offensive asset, he’s meeting the high expectations that accompanied his signing. However, Soto remains focused on increasing his influence, aiming for even greater achievements in the games ahead.

Here’s a breakdown of his performance so far:

• Games Played (G): 66
• At-Bats (AB): 238
• Batting Average (AVG): .248
• Home Runs (HR): 12
• Runs Batted In (RBI): 33
• On-Base Percentage (OBP): .386
• Slugging Percentage (SLG): .454
• OPS (On-Base Plus Slugging): .840
• Runs (R): 48
• Hits (H): 59
• Stolen Bases (SB): 7