"Trying To Do Too Much": Stearns Analyzes Juan Soto's Plate Approach

David

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Post on Jun 02, 2025

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Trying to Do Too Much: Stearns Analyzes Juan Soto's Plate Approach

Juan Soto. The name conjures images of effortless power, seemingly impossible bat control, and a discerning eye at the plate. But this season, the baseball world has witnessed a different Soto – one struggling to find consistency, a player seemingly overwhelmed by the weight of expectation. Former general manager Jim Stearns recently offered insightful commentary on Soto's struggles, pointing to a potential key factor: trying to do too much.

Stearns, known for his astute player evaluations, didn't pull any punches. He suggested that Soto's current slump stems from a fundamental shift in his approach at the plate. Instead of focusing on making solid contact and letting his natural talent shine, Soto appears to be pressing, attempting overly aggressive swings and chasing pitches outside the strike zone.

This isn't simply speculation; the numbers bear it out. Soto's batting average, typically a hallmark of his game, has dipped significantly. His strikeout rate is up, and his on-base percentage, usually a testament to his plate discipline, is also showing a concerning decline. These are stark indicators that something is amiss in his approach.

The Problem of Over-Aggression:

Stearns highlighted Soto's increased swing rate, particularly on pitches outside the strike zone. This suggests a hitter trying to force the issue, trying to hit a home run with every swing rather than focusing on consistently putting the ball in play. This aggressive approach, while sometimes resulting in spectacular results, is ultimately unsustainable. The inherent risk of swinging at bad pitches leads to more strikeouts and fewer opportunities to get on base.

"He's a phenomenal talent," Stearns stated in a recent interview, "but right now, it feels like he's fighting himself. He's trying to hit every pitch out of the park, instead of trusting his natural ability to hit for average and get on base."

A Shift in Mentality?

This change in Soto's approach could stem from several factors. The immense pressure to perform at an elite level, the weight of a massive contract, or even a subtle adjustment in his swing mechanics could all contribute to this apparent over-aggressiveness. Whatever the cause, the effect is clear: a diminished offensive output.

Stearns suggests a return to fundamentals as a potential solution. Focusing on making solid contact, taking more pitches, and exercising patience at the plate could help Soto regain his rhythm and rediscover his once-unrivaled hitting prowess. A simplified approach, focusing on hitting line drives and singles, may ultimately lead to more consistent results.

The Path Forward:

Soto's struggles aren't unusual for a player of his caliber. Even the greatest hitters experience slumps. The key is to identify the root cause of the problem and work towards a solution. Stearns' analysis provides a valuable framework for understanding Soto's current difficulties. By refocusing on a more patient, disciplined approach, Soto might just find his way back to the dominant force he's always been. The question remains: will he heed this advice and return to his former glory? Only time will tell. But for now, the challenge is clear: less is more for Juan Soto.

Keywords: Juan Soto, MLB, baseball, hitting slump, batting average, strikeout rate, on-base percentage, Jim Stearns, plate approach, hitting analysis, baseball strategy, offensive struggles, player performance.