Juan Soto's Baserunning Criticized; Mets To Discuss With Outfielder

David

3 min read

Post on May 21, 2025

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Juan Soto's Baserunning Blunders Under the Microscope: Mets to Hold Talks Amidst Criticism

Juan Soto, the highly touted slugger recently acquired by the San Diego Padres, has found himself in the spotlight, but not for his powerful home runs. Instead, his baserunning has become a subject of intense scrutiny, prompting questions about his overall game and leading to speculation about potential future team discussions, including with the New York Mets.

The criticism isn't new; Soto's baserunning has been a point of discussion throughout his career. However, recent gaffes on the basepaths have reignited the debate, fueling speculation about his suitability for a team with high expectations. While his offensive prowess remains undeniable, his questionable decisions on the bases have raised concerns among analysts and fans alike.

Soto's Baserunning Woes: A Closer Look

Several instances of questionable baserunning have been highlighted recently. These include:

• Missed opportunities for extra bases: On multiple occasions, Soto has failed to aggressively advance on hits, seemingly missing opportunities to put himself in better scoring positions. This lack of hustle has frustrated many observers.
• Poor judgment on stolen base attempts: While not known for his speed, attempts at stolen bases have sometimes been ill-advised, leading to outs and costing the team valuable momentum.
• Slow starts on the basepaths: Even when attempting to advance, Soto's perceived lack of urgency has been noted, suggesting a need for improvement in his overall baserunning instincts.

These issues aren't just isolated incidents; they represent a pattern that has raised questions about his overall approach to the game. This lack of aggressive baserunning contrasts sharply with the expectations placed on players at his level.

The Mets Connection: Speculation and Potential Discussions

While Soto is currently a Padre, rumors have circulated regarding potential future trade discussions, with the New York Mets being mentioned as a possible suitor. Sources suggest the Mets organization will be holding internal talks to assess Soto's overall profile, with his baserunning undoubtedly forming a key part of the conversation. The Mets, known for their emphasis on aggressive, all-around baseball, may have a different perspective on Soto's value compared to other teams. Their evaluation will be crucial in determining whether they would consider acquiring him in a trade.

Beyond the Baserunning: Soto's Overall Value

It's crucial to remember that despite the baserunning concerns, Juan Soto remains one of baseball's most potent hitters. His batting average, on-base percentage, and slugging numbers consistently rank among the league's best. His ability to get on base and drive in runs is undeniable. However, for a player of his caliber, addressing the baserunning issues becomes paramount to maximizing his overall impact on the game. Improving in this area would solidify his place among baseball's elite players.

The Future: Room for Improvement?

The question isn't whether Soto can improve his baserunning; it's whether he will. His immense talent suggests that with focused coaching and dedication, he could significantly enhance this aspect of his game. The upcoming season will be crucial in determining whether he can address these shortcomings and elevate his performance to the next level. The eyes of the baseball world – and potentially the New York Mets front office – will be watching closely.

What are your thoughts on Juan Soto's baserunning? Share your opinions in the comments below!