MLB Insider Drops Concerning Juan Soto Update After Subway Series Flop That Should Worry Mets Fans

The morning coffee at the Big Apple is a little strong these days. Reason? What else but the Subway Series week! A time when the Bleacher Creatures become an oven of raw passion, and for one man, the heat has never been greater. Yes, you guessed him right! Juan Soto. The spectators are the same who used to sing a symphony for him, who are now releasing a deluge of rage.

But is the chaos bothering him? A whisper is floating around that something is missing.

The opener game of the Subway Series was played on 16th May, and it was a contest of emotions. In a 6-2 loss to the Yankees, Soto had a terrible game. He went 0 for 2 and walked three times. The boos and chants of “F— Juan Soto” filled the stadium and were very different from the praise he used to get when he played for the Yankees.

But he stood there with a calm demeanor and handled it with maturity. And in the second game, the Mets defeated the Yankees 3-2. Soto helped the Mets win despite Bronx fans booing. He stole third base and scored on Mark Vientos’ sacrifice fly in the fourth inning, demonstrating his baserunning skills. This run knotted it 1-1 and changed the game.

But still, there has been a question about his performance. And this MLB insider’s observation might concern Queens fans.

A sharp and worrisome word spread among the league’s inner circles. The Met Cast shared some speculations on their X handle. “He looks so weird out there. He just has no shuffle, no life to him. He looks kind of nervous and hesitant.” The observation clarifies what many had assumed: Juan Soto’s confidence seemed to be in doubt. His signature move, the “Soto Shuffle,” was noticeably absent.

Soto’s move to the Mets has been far from seamless. Expectations were sky-high after signing a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract. His early-season numbers, though, paint a different tale. As of May, he is hitting .283 with 41 hits, 8 home runs, and 20 RBIs. Although these figures are not catastrophic, they do not meet the superstar performance the Mets—and their supporters—expected.

So, can what the source said be one of the reasons?

The pressure is real. Soto himself admitted the difficulties of fitting into a new squad and the many dynamics involved. Pitchers are treating Soto differently without the protection of a hitter like Aaron Judge behind him, which results in fewer good pitches and more calculated walks. But it’s been days now, and he has hitters like Alonso and Lindor. So, it can just be the booing effect! Can be, no?

In a recent discussion, sports analyst Scott Braun gave the verdict on this whole situation. He asked the Yankees fan not to treat him like an enemy. “Should he be public enemy number one for the Yankees? No. If you’re really that upset that Soto didn’t sign back, then public enemy number one should be Hal Steinbrenner because he got outbid by Steve Cohen.” Makes sense for us…

No matter what, Juan Soto’s path forward is difficult. The media attention is there, the supporters are outspoken, and the burden of his contract hangs enormous. Sometimes, pressure is so palpable that it makes you take a step back from things for a moment.

Mic’d-Up mishap and Bronx boos

Juan Soto’s comeback to Yankee Stadium as a Met drew severe criticism and resentment from the Bronx faithful. Over the Subway Series, he endured constant booing and taunts, a sharp contrast to his prior time in pinstripes. As fans voiced their unhappiness about his offseason transfer across town, the atmosphere was electric and the tension obvious.

Amidst all this chaos, Juan Soto first gave his consent to be mic’d up on ESPN’s “Sunday Night Baseball” during the series finale, which added to the intensity. But just before the game, he stepped back, which caused Brandon Nimmo to take over. Although such alterations are not unusual, the timing and setting made it significant, especially considering Soto’s key involvement in the series and the increased emotions surrounding his return to the Bronx.

Well, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza has always shown faith in Soto’s absorption into the organization despite outside influences. He commanded Soto’s speedy transition and clubhouse leadership, saying, “I didn’t think [the adjustment] was going to be this quick, to be honest with you. I thought it was going to take a little bit longer, but he fit right in.”

Focusing on Soto’s good impact on the team’s dynamics, Mendoza underlined Soto’s humility and willingness to share his knowledge with colleagues.

Although the Subway Series created difficulties for Soto both on and off the field, the backing from management reflects the clubhouse’s faith in his worth and tenacity. The Mets stay hopeful that Soto will keep adjusting and play a significant role in their quest for success as the season advances.