The New York Mets‘ fanbase is finally breathing easier after a tough start to the MLB regular season. Despite early struggles from key players like Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor, the Mets appear to be finding their rhythm. As the team begins to regain momentum, head coach Carlos Mendoza recently shared what his squad possesses this year that the Los Angeles Dodgers lack.
The reigning champions, the Dodgers, have looked nearly unstoppable, boasting a 9-1 record early in the season. Shohei Ohtani has been their standout player, playing a critical role in their success. With the season still in its early stages, the Dodgers are the clear favorites, but the Mets have begun to show glimpses of what they can accomplish in 2025.
One player who has been crucial in the Mets’ recent turnaround is Soto. His timely hits and runs have been central to Mendoza’s strategy. However, Soto has yet to hit a home run in the past five games, raising concerns among fans. Despite this, Mendoza remains confident in Soto’s ability to contribute in the long run.
Ahead of their matchup with the Toronto Blue Jays, Mendoza addressed a question from a young reporter, reflecting on what the Mets have that the Dodgers don’t. “We’ve got Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor,” Mendoza said, highlighting the unique strength of his roster this season.
Juan Soto #22 of the New York Mets poses for a portrait at Clover Park on February 20, 2025 in Port St. Lucie, Florida.
How decisive have Soto and Lindor been for the Mets?
As the Mets struggle early in the season, the expectations surrounding star players Soto and Lindor are sky-high. After committing a significant financial investment in Soto, formerly of the Yankees, the team has yet to see the kind of impact they had hoped for from him.
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So far this season, Soto has played in 8 games, tallying 7 runs, 7 hits, 2 doubles, and just 1 home run. In contrast, Lindor has appeared in 7 games, recording 4 runs, 7 hits, 2 doubles, and no home runs.
With these statistics, the Mets are eager to see more from two of their most important players. Though it’s early in the season, with plenty of games remaining, fans are still hopeful that Soto and Lindor can turn things around.
The Dodgers and Ohtani’s dominance
Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Dodgers have showcased one of the most formidable weapons in baseball, Ohtani. In 10 games this season, Ohtani has contributed 3 home runs, 11 runs, 11 hits, and 1 double.
One of his most memorable performances came against the Tigers, when Ohtani played a pivotal role in the Dodgers’ dramatic comeback from a 0-5 deficit. The game ended 6-5 in favor of the Dodgers, who are determined to defend their title and retain the Commissioner’s Trophy.
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