Soto Season Has Begun: Spring Training Debut in Orange & Blue
Juan Soto officially began his first Spring Training as a member of the New York Mets on Sunday, stepping into the batter’s box for some swings at the team’s complex in Port St. Lucie, Florida.
The 26-year-old superstar, who signed a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract this offseason—the largest in professional sports history—was seen taking hacks with his signature smooth left-handed swing, already appearing locked in as he prepares for his first season in Queens.
Juan Soto has arrived at @Mets camp 😎 pic.twitter.com/ImZdjBIpN4
— MLB (@MLB) February 16, 2025
Soto immediately commanded attention as teammates and coaches observed his approach in the cage.
The reigning on-base machine made consistent solid contact, showing early signs of the dominance that has defined his young but already legendary career. With Citi Field now his long-term home, expectations are sky-high for the three-time Silver Slugger and World Series champion.
The Generational Juan Soto. pic.twitter.com/8YVCyXLJTV
— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) February 16, 2025
Beyond his work in the batter’s box, Soto wasted no time integrating himself into the clubhouse. He was seen conversing with outfielders Brandon Nimmo and Jesse Winker, two key pieces of the Mets’ outfield mix, and Mets manager Carlos Mendoza and catcher Francisco Alvarez.
Clubhouse Connections
The early chemistry-building is crucial as Soto is expected to be the centerpiece of the Mets’ lineup for years to come.
After spending last season with the Yankees, Soto’s decision to sign a historic deal with the Mets reshaped the franchise’s future and sent shockwaves through Major League Baseball. Now, with Spring Training underway, the next chapter begins.
First Spring Training Presser
Speaking to the media on Sunday, Soto exuded a strong sense of purpose, expressing excitement and commitment to his new team. From the outset, he clarified that he is here to contribute, improve, and help the Mets compete at the highest level. Most notably, he spoke about the stability of his long-term future in New York.
“I’m really happy to know where I’m going to be for the next 15 years,” Soto said. “More than excited to spend it with this group of guys.”
“I’m really happy to know where I’m going to be for the next 15 years. More than excited to spend it with this group of guys.”
– Juan Soto pic.twitter.com/RRFtBVkQNF
— SNY (@SNYtv) February 16, 2025
His enthusiasm extends beyond his own role—he is eager to be part of a team built for sustained success.
The media’s focus positioned Soto as “that guy” for the Mets’ lineup. Still, he continued to emphasize how important it is for the team to win games, reiterating that he is ready and willing to be wherever he can contribute to the club’s success and push it all the way.
“Really happy for the career I’ve been having so far, but really hungry for more. I want more. I want to keep winning. I want to keep feeling the same way I’ve been feeling since day one.”
– Juan Soto pic.twitter.com/yRBj96k1SX
— SNY (@SNYtv) February 16, 2025
Hungry for More
Despite being one of the league’s most elite hitters, Soto remains committed to refining all aspects of his game. He has strongly emphasized improving his base running and becoming more effective on the basepaths. Additionally, he continues to work on his defense to one day earn a Gold Glove.
With eyes on a World Series, Soto has made it clear that he is ready to give Mets fans his “100%” daily. Knowing he’s already loving repping orange and blue, you can expect an electric atmosphere with plenty of home runs at Citi Field this summer—and for the next 15.
Mets’ Spring Training Game Schedule | February
- Houston Astros @ New York Mets
- Saturday, February 22nd | 1:10 pm | SS
- Clover Park, Port St. Lucie, FL*
- Saturday, February 22nd | 1:10 pm | SS
- New York Mets @ Washington Nationals
- Sunday, February 23rd | 1:05 pm | SS
- Cacti Park of the Palm Beaches, West Palm Beach, FL
- Sunday, February 23rd | 1:05 pm | SS
- Miami Marlins @ New York Mets
- Sunday, February 23rd | 1:10 pm | SS
- Clover Park, Port St. Lucie, FL*
- Sunday, February 23rd | 1:10 pm | SS
- New York Mets @ St. Louis Cardinals
- Monday, February 24th | 1:05 pm
- Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, Jupiter, FL
- Monday, February 24th | 1:05 pm
- New York Mets @ Houston Astros
- Tuesday, February 25th | 1:05 pm
- Cacti Park of the Palm Beaches, West Palm Beach, FL
- Tuesday, February 25th | 1:05 pm
- New York Mets @ Miami Marlins
- Wednesday, February 26th | 1:05 pm
- Roger Dean Chevrolet Stadium, Jupiter, FL
- Wednesday, February 26th | 1:05 pm
- Houston Astros @ New York Mets
- Thursday, February 27th | 1:10 pm
- Clover Park, Port St. Lucie, FL*
- Thursday, February 27th | 1:10 pm
- Washington Nationals @ New York Mets
- Friday, February 28th | 1:10 pm
- Clover Park, Port St. Lucie, FL*
- Friday, February 28th | 1:10 pm
More New York Mets News:
Link: Carlos Mendoza lays out Mets’ Spring Training Plans
Link: Francisco Alvarez calls Mets’ lineup “Best in Baseball”
