Lindor to Soto: 'Stay the Course' Amid New York Pressures

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Matt Graves | Last updated May 23, 2025 3:53 PM ET

Francisco Lindor knows exactly what Juan Soto is going through.

In a conversation with Anthony DiComo of MLB.com, Lindor reflected on his own early struggles in New York, a situation similar to Soto's current challenges. Within a first month as a Met, Lindor was booed by fans at Citi Field. Despite the 10-year, $341 million extension, the pairing felt shaky form the start.

That was just four years ago. Lindor has since transformed his narrative, evolving into a clubhouse leader and one of the Mets' most dependable stars.

Now, Soto faces similar scrutiny. Lindor's experience offers both a cautionary tale and a hopeful blueprint for how to weather the storm in Queens.

"In the grand scheme thing of things, people have tendencies to look at a long-term contract in a one-year span," Lindor said to DiComo.

"But it's a long-term contract. It's going to play out. He's going to be one of the greatest Mets to play in this organization. To play 15 years here, he's going to throw up some crazy numbers."

Soto is slashing .243/.374/.429 with eight home runs and 21 RBI in 49 games. It is a stark contrast to the .316/.415/.551 line, 11 home runs and 37 RBI he posted in his first 49 games with the New York Yankees last season.

Lindor, now on the other side of his early turbulence, shared what helped him turn the corner.

"I learned how to stay the course and live in the moment and not live so much with the exterior noises," Lindor said. "And then rely on the people there were here to help me continue to get better."

Lindor's advice offers a steadying perspective for Soto, who has the talent and support to overcome the early turbulence and thrive long-term in New York.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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