Soto Makes a Statement in First At-Bat for teh Mets
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — Juan Soto made his presence felt in his New York Mets debut,homering in his first spring training at-bat Saturday against the Houston Astros.
Soto launched a solo shot to left-centre field in the first inning against left-hander Colton Gordon, setting the tone for the Mets in their 6-2 win. The 426-foot drive came on a 2-1 pitch and extended his spring training home run streak.
Brandon Nimmo added a two-run homer in the fourth inning,while Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso also drove in runs for the Mets.
“I feel like everybody was really happy,” Soto said. “I would say the worst reaction was (teammate) Jesse Winker, that I stepped on him. He was really (in) pain, but he was happy at the same time.”
The reigning NL East champions signed Soto to a record $765 million, 15-year contract this offseason, making a blockbuster move after he played for the New York Yankees last season.
Soto is hitting second in the order for the Mets, flanked by Lindor and Alonso. He drove in another run with a groundball in the second inning, accounting for his only two plate appearances of the game.
“It means a lot,” Mets manager Buck Showalter said.
Soto’s success continued a strong start to spring training for the Mets, who also saw a strong outing from another New York newcomer. Clay Holmes, who was acquired from the Yankees, fired three perfect innings, striking out three while converting starter clay.
The outing was encouraging for the Mets as they prepare for another season with high expectations.
Here are two PAA-related questions for the provided title:
Juan Soto’s Mets Debut: Your Burning Questions Answered
Q: How did Juan Soto perform in his first at-bat as a Met?
A: Soto made a statement right away,launching a solo home run to left-center field in the first inning against the houston Astros. The 426-foot drive extended his spring training home run streak!
Q: What is Soto’s new role in the mets lineup?
A: He’s hitting second, sandwiched between star shortstop Francisco Lindor adn slugger Pete Alonso. That’s a formidable trio for opposing pitchers!
Q: Did anyone else contribute offensively for the Mets?
A: Absolutely! Brandon Nimmo added a two-run homer in the fourth, and Lindor and alonso also drove in runs.
Q: How did the Mets’ recent acquisition, Clay Holmes, fare on the mound?
A: Holmes had a fantastic outing, pitching three perfect innings with three strikeouts while relieving starter Clay. This performance is a great sign for the Mets’ bullpen.
Soto’s impressive debut gives Mets fans plenty to be excited about as the season approaches.
