Mets Struggle as Soto Faces Pressure During Subway Series

New York, NY — The New York Mets have slipped in the National League East division, currently on a three-game losing streak. Some analysts point to the pressure on superstar Juan Soto during the Subway Series as contributing to this downturn.

Despite the struggles, the Mets are seeing a resurgence from closer Edwin Diaz, who missed all of 2023 due to injury and had a shaky return last season. Recently, Diaz has shown signs of his dominant form, striking out 11 batters in 8 1/3 scoreless innings with only two walks.

“After a rough stretch in mid-April, it seems he’s back to his 2022 form,” said a source familiar with the team. Pete Alonso, another key player, mentioned that a recent conversation with Diaz gave him the impression that Diaz is “locked in” and focused on his game. Diaz has not allowed a hit in his last four appearances.

If Diaz continues to excel, he may opt out of his current contract in November to seek a longer-term deal, according to sources. Diaz’s contract, signed in 2022, is valued at $102 million and includes an option for the Mets for $17 million in 2028. Walking away would mean giving up $48 million, but a strong season could lead to a more lucrative contract elsewhere.

On the other hand, Juan Soto has had his challenges since joining the Mets. He faced criticism after appearing lackadaisical during his first Subway Series as a Met, including an incident where he hesitated while rounding first base on a play he assumed was a home run. Manager Carlos Mendoza indicated he would talk to Soto and expressed understanding, saying, “He’s human. He’s 26, man. He’s going to be fine. He’s Juan Soto.”

Mets fans hope that Soto will learn from these moments and deliver the effort expected from a player with a $765 million contract.