Mets' Bench Coach Mendoza To Counsel Juan Soto On Baserunning

David

3 min read

Post on May 22, 2025

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Mets' Bench Coach Eric Mendoza to Counsel Juan Soto on Baserunning

New York Mets superstar Juan Soto is getting a new tutor: bench coach Eric Mendoza. The Mets are pulling out all the stops to maximize Soto's already impressive offensive contributions, and that includes addressing a perceived weakness: baserunning. This strategic move could significantly impact Soto's overall game and the Mets' postseason hopes.

The news broke earlier this week, sending ripples through baseball circles. While Soto is renowned for his exceptional hitting ability – a .292 career batting average speaks for itself – his baserunning has, at times, been criticized as less than optimal. This is where Mendoza, a highly respected coach with extensive experience, comes in.

Mendoza's Expertise: A Perfect Fit for Soto's Needs

Mendoza's career speaks volumes. He's a seasoned baseball mind with a proven track record of improving players' skills. His focus on fundamental techniques and advanced analytical approaches makes him ideally suited to work with Soto. Many analysts believe that Soto's baserunning isn't necessarily a lack of athleticism, but rather a need for refined strategy and technique. This is precisely where Mendoza excels.

This coaching initiative isn't just about stolen bases; it's about maximizing every aspect of Soto's time on the basepaths. This includes:

• Improved reads: Learning to anticipate pitches and pitcher tendencies to gain an advantage off the base.
• Base-running strategy: Understanding situational baserunning, including when to take an extra base and when to hold up.
• Advanced base-running techniques: Mastering techniques like leading off, taking secondary leads, and breaking towards the next base effectively.

Mendoza's experience working with various players throughout his career will be invaluable. He understands how to tailor his coaching style to different personalities and playing styles, making him a perfect fit for a player of Soto's caliber.

The Potential Impact on the Mets' Season

The Mets are banking on this coaching initiative to pay significant dividends. Even small improvements in Soto's baserunning could translate into extra runs, putting the team in a stronger position in close games. This is particularly crucial during the intense pressure of the postseason. Improving Soto's baserunning could be the X-factor that elevates the Mets' performance to a championship level.

This move also speaks to the Mets' commitment to fostering growth within their roster. It demonstrates a proactive approach to player development, a factor often overlooked in the relentless pursuit of immediate results.

Looking Ahead: Will the Strategy Pay Off?

Only time will tell whether this coaching partnership will yield the desired results. However, the Mets' decision to invest in Soto's development through the expertise of Eric Mendoza demonstrates a forward-thinking approach to maximizing their roster's potential. The baseball world will be watching closely to see how this strategic move impacts Soto's performance and the Mets' journey towards the World Series. We'll continue to provide updates as this story unfolds. Stay tuned for more on this developing story!