Inside the Dugout: Mendoza’s Game Plan to Boost Juan Soto’s Hustle
New York Mets manager Eduardo Mendoza is preparing for a pivotal meeting with star outfielder Juan Soto to address the slugger’s hustle out of the batter’s box. As the Mets push for a stronger second-half performance, Mendoza aims to emphasize speed and effort as critical components of Soto’s game. The discussion, expected this week at Citi Field, comes amid growing scrutiny over Soto’s baserunning metrics, which lag behind his elite offensive production.
The Metrics Behind the Move
While Soto’s bat remains one of the most feared in baseball—his .312 average and 18 home runs this season attest to that—his baserunning has drawn criticism. According to Statcast, Soto ranks in the bottom 15% of MLB players in sprint speed (25.1 feet per second), a stark contrast to his top-tier exit velocity and hard-hit rates. Advanced metrics also show he’s cost the Mets an estimated 3.5 runs on the bases this year due to lackluster effort on routine grounders.
“Juan’s talent is undeniable, but baseball is a game of inches,” Mendoza said in a recent press conference. “We need every player, regardless of stature, to maximize their effort. A split-second delay can turn a single into an out or change the momentum of a game.”
Why Hustle Matters for Soto and the Mets
The Mets, currently hovering near .500, are in a tight Wild Card race where every win could determine postseason eligibility. Soto’s occasional lack of urgency has become a talking point among analysts. Former All-Star outfielder and ESPN analyst Eduardo Pérez weighed in: “Soto’s power and plate discipline are generational, but legends like Pete Rose and Derek Jeter built their legacies on relentless hustle. That’s what separates good players from icons.”
Key areas where Soto could improve:
- First-step quickness: Soto’s average time to first base (4.45 seconds) trails peers like Mookie Betts (4.15).
- Ground-ball effort: Only 42% of Soto’s grounders are run out at full speed, per Baseball Savant.
- Leadership by example: Younger players often emulate stars’ habits, making Soto’s effort level pivotal for team culture.
Balancing Preservation and Performance
Some argue Soto’s cautious approach stems from injury prevention. After missing 40 games in 2022 with a calf strain, he may be conserving energy for his $35 million-per-year bat. “You don’t want Juan tearing down the line on a routine chopper and risking his swing,” said Mets trainer Michael Sandoval. “But there’s a middle ground.”
Mendoza’s challenge is finding that balance. Insiders suggest he’ll propose targeted hustle scenarios—like sprinting on potential infield hits—while allowing Soto to pace himself on certain plays. The manager has precedent: In 2023, he helped Daniel Vogelbach shave 0.3 seconds off his baserunning times through focused drills.
What’s Next for Soto and the Mets?
The meeting could set the tone for the Mets’ playoff push. Soto’s engagement will be tested immediately, with a 10-game homestand against division rivals starting Friday. If Mendoza’s message resonates, the Mets could gain an edge in close games. If not, tensions between old-school hustle and modern load management may flare.
“This isn’t about calling out Juan—it’s about unlocking another level,” Mendoza emphasized. The baseball world will be watching to see if Soto responds. For fans, the takeaway is clear: Effort remains non-negotiable, even for superstars.
Want to see Soto’s hustle in action? Catch the Mets’ next game on SNY or follow our in-depth coverage for updates.
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