The Mets are under the microscope in 2025, and so is Juan Soto—but Pete Alonso wants everyone to take a breath. It’s not every day a player signs a $765 million contract. It’s even rarer for that player to hit a cold stretch in the first half of their first season in a new uniform.
That’s exactly the situation unfolding in Queens, where Juan Soto’s early struggles have stirred panic, headlines, and hot takes. But according to Pete Alonso, it’s time for a little perspective.
Alonso Steps Up to Back Soto
On a recent episode of the On Base podcast with Mookie Betts, Alonso didn’t just defend Soto—he delivered a masterclass in leadership.
“He’s a 26-year-old kid, but he’s committed to his routine, and he’s committed to his process,” Alonso said. “The kid eats, sleeps, and drinks ball.”
That line says it all. Alonso’s message was clear: Soto is no diva. He’s not mailing it in. He’s grinding. It’s easy to forget that despite his decorated résumé—World Series champion, All-Star, Silver Slugger—Soto is still just 26, and this is only his eighth season in the bigs.
Alonso continued: “People think of him like he’s a super veteran, but really, he’s just a 26-year-old guy. What he’s been able to do and accomplish… he’s owned it.”
The Struggles Are Real—But So Are the Signs
Soto’s .232 batting average is the lowest of his career, and that’s caught the eye of every fan in Flushing and beyond. With 11 home runs and a reduced walk rate, the expectations tied to that record-breaking deal have quickly turned into criticism.
But the signs of life are there. Soto has picked up a hit in five of his last six games. He’s showing flashes of the composed, calculating hitter who haunted pitchers across the National League for years. If he’s trending in the right direction, Mets fans might soon remember why their front office wrote that nine-figure check in the first place.
A Duo Built for October
While Soto’s bat warms up, Pete Alonso has quietly been putting together an MVP-level campaign:
- .290 average
- 14 home runs
- 53 RBIs
He’s been the heartbeat of New York’s offense. The prospect of Soto regaining his form beside Alonso in the lineup is exactly what Mets fans dreamed of when this team took shape. With the division still in reach and the Wild Card race wide open, Soto’s resurgence could be the key to unlocking a playoff run.
Mets Believe Soto Will Perform When It Counts Most
Alonso’s message wasn’t just about supporting a teammate—it was about reminding everyone of the long view. Baseball seasons are marathons, and greatness, even when momentarily obscured, doesn’t just vanish.
Juan Soto may be scuffling now, but he’s too talented, focused, and relentless to stay down for long. If Alonso’s confidence in him proves well placed—and all signs suggest it will—the Mets could be primed to make a whole lot of noise this fall.
