How quickly things can change in baseball? Just a few months ago, the buzz around Queens was electric — the Mets had pulled off what many considered a blockbuster, landing superstar outfielder Juan Soto in a move that sent expectations soaring.

The hype was real, the headlines bold, and fans dared to dream big. Fast forward to the present, and reality has taken a different turn. Soto, once hailed as the centerpiece of a rejuvenated Mets lineup, has struggled to find his rhythm, falling short of the lofty standards set for him.

As a result, when the April All-Star selections were announced, his name was notably absent. Instead, it was Pete Alonso and Francisco Lindor — two familiar faces — who earned the nod, carrying the torch for the Mets while Soto continues to search for his form.

The Athletic’s AL and NL All-Star selection by Jim Bowden saw a major miss in the name of Soto.

Expected move considering the current slump in Soto’s batting. Soto, known for his elite plate discipline and power, has had an uncharacteristically quiet start. Through 32 games, he’s slashing .252/.379/.443 with three home runs, seven doubles, and 14 RBIs — solid by most standards. However, well below the bar he’s set over his eight-year career. Compared to his torrid April a year ago (7 HRs), this version of Soto feels subdued. Speaking about settling into the squad and getting his form back, Soto said, “These guys have been really clear with me to make me feel comfortable, go on out there and play.”

However, the poor stats have resulted in one thing. When the All-Star rosters were announced for April, his name was missing, while Pete Alonso and Francisco Lindor emerged as the Mets’ flagbearers instead.

Lindor and Alonso have been instrumental in the Mets’ impressive start to the 2025 season, leading the team to an MLB-best 20-9 record by the end of April (currently 21-11). Lindor has been a catalyst at the top of the lineup, delivering consistent performances throughout April. He posted a .308 batting average with 6 home runs and 16 RBIs, contributing significantly to the Mets’ offensive prowess.

Additionally, Alonso has been a powerhouse in the heart of the Mets’ lineup. In April, he achieved a .343 batting average, with 7 home runs and 28 RBIs, placing him among the league leaders in these categories. So, while Lindor and Alonso’s selection is expected, Soto getting snubbed is something fans are not accustomed to. What’s next? May might be different. 

But, hey, check Juan Soto’s performance yesterday. It’s nothing but the announcements of what’s coming ahead.

Soto is rebuilding his lost empire

You thought Juan Soto was lost in the crowd? Despite the sluggish start, Soto offered a timely reminder of his star power during Thursday’s matchup against the Diamondbacks. In a much-needed breakout performance, Soto launched his first Citi Field home run of the season — a towering solo shot to left-center in the sixth inning that finally cracked the scoreboard open for the Mets. Wait, that’s not all.

In the eighth, Soto struck again, this time with authority — a blistering shot to straightaway center, his second homer of the night. The performance wasn’t just a highlight reel; it was a statement. For Soto, it may very well mark the beginning of a turnaround. For the Mets, it’s a glimpse of the impact they envisioned when they brought him aboard.

Remember Soto’s rough start last year with the Yankees? Upon joining the Yankees in 2024, Soto faced initial challenges adapting to AL pitching. Despite a slow start, he quickly turned things around, finishing April with a .290/.411/.550 slash line, including 7 home runs and 21 RBIs. His performance earned him a starting spot in the American League All-Star lineup, showcasing his ability to overcome early-season slumps. So yes, the Mets fans can expect the same turnaround from Soto this year. 

So, Juan Soto has demonstrated a consistent ability to rebound from early-season slumps throughout his MLB career. This year will be the latest addition to his list of elite comebacks.