Juan Soto exited the New York Mets' 4-1 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies on Thursday with what the team described as "a little left calf soreness." The outfielder was removed from the game before the bottom of the eighth inning.
Despite the concern, interim manager Andy Green indicated that Soto's injury is not expected to be a lengthy absence. Green anticipates Soto will be back on the field over the weekend. Soto himself stated after the game that he felt the soreness about halfway through the contest. He added that he intended to be in the lineup for Saturday's game, when the Mets are scheduled to continue their series against the Phillies.
Green noted that Soto had not had an All-Star break and had significant activity in the days leading up to Thursday's game. "It made sense to get him off his feet," Green said regarding the decision to remove Soto from the game.
Soto is slated to receive treatment on Friday and will be evaluated on Saturday. Green added that Soto could have continued playing, but it "didn't make sense" to risk further injury.
Calf injuries have been a significant issue for the Mets this season, with both Soto and teammate Francisco Lindor having missed time due to similar ailments. Soto reached base four times in Thursday's game, recording one hit and three walks before his exit.