New York Mets outfielder Juan Soto has been selected as a National League starter for the upcoming All-Star Game in Philadelphia on July 14. Soto is the only Mets player to receive an All-Star nod this season.
Soto, who has been a consistent performer for the Mets, learned of his selection on Saturday before the team's game against the Braves. He began play with MLB's second-highest OPS (.971) and has contributed 18 home runs and 41 RBIs in 69 games, despite missing nearly three weeks in April due to a calf strain.
Last season, Soto expressed disappointment at being left out of the All-Star Game in his first year with the Mets. "I just fell short last year and it kind of motivated me that I have got to be better," Soto said. "I have got to be better to be with the best of the best in the league, and this year I came in with a different mentality, and thank God that I made it."
Regarding potential participation in the Home Run Derby, Soto indicated he would consider it but will make a decision based on his physical condition. "I have got to check where my body’s at," he stated. "How much I need to recover and be ready for the second half. We have got to think about every situation and we’ll go from there."
Relief pitchers Luke Weaver and Huascar Brazoban were also noted as potential All-Star candidates for the Mets, though their roles as setup relievers traditionally present a challenge for selection. Both remain in consideration as potential replacements on the National League roster.
Last year, the Mets had four representatives in the All-Star Game: Francisco Lindor, Pete Alonso, Edwin Diaz, and David Peterson. Soto's selection marks his fifth career All-Star appearance, having previously represented the Nationals, Padres, and Yankees.
"It’s always an unbelievable experience and I expect to have the same thing here," Soto said. "I have got to thank all the fans in the Dominican Republic, they made it possible. Thanks to the people of New York too, they really voted a lot. Mets fans are really unbelievable, and I appreciate everything they have done for me these past two years."