Juan Soto didn’t just take a swing at Shohei Ohtani; he aimed it straight at the entire National League.
When asked if Ohtani is an “insurmountable obstacle” in the MVP race, Soto bypassed the usual spring-training clichés about team success and numbers. Instead, he delivered a statement that could echo through Citi Field: “He better keep doing what he’s doing… because I’m coming.”
And Mets fans should be thrilled. This isn’t just about an award; it’s about identity.
This statement reveals the type of superstar the Mets have signed: one who expects the league to adjust to him. This matters because the Mets haven’t just been chasing wins; they’ve been chasing legitimacy.
For years, the Mets have experimented with different formulas for being a serious contender. Sometimes it’s been star power, sometimes depth, and sometimes sheer hope. What they’ve lacked is a true face-of-the-NL leader who talks like he owns the league.
Soto does. His message to the clubhouse is clear: “Don’t just be talented.
Be fierce.” The Mets can’t afford another season of searching for their identity.
They need to start the year with an attitude that aims for dominance, not just relevance.
That’s why Soto’s words resonate so strongly in February. The Mets didn’t bring him in to be polite or to quietly stack a 4-WAR season. They brought him to change the team’s mindset.
Ohtani is a phenomenon, backed by the Dodgers’ powerhouse. Soto acknowledges that, but he’s not conceding anything.
The best part? This mindset could ripple through the roster. If Soto’s attitude is “I’m coming,” then the Mets’ attitude should be all about hunting for October.
This is a message to Ohtani, the NL, and every team that’s underestimated the Mets. Soto just reminded them that the proof might be arriving sooner than expected.