
The New York Mets failed to reach the postseason in 2025 despite the efforts of left-handed slugger Juan Soto. The 27-year-old superstar joined New York on a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract last offseason. Despite the Mets’ disappointing season, it had nothing to do with Soto, who lived up to expectations across 160 games.
Soto posted a .263 batting average, .396 on-base percentage, .921 OPS, 43 home runs and 105 RBIs. Soto emerged as a threat on the base paths, stealing 38 bases, which led the entire National League. He had never stolen more than 12 in a single season before 2025. He also continued to display his elite plate discipline, leading MLB in walks with 127 for the fourth time in his career.
Soto’s all-around production earned him a finalist nod for National League MVP, announced Tuesday by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America. He was selected alongside Kyle Schwarber of the Philadelphia Phillies and Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers, reinforcing his status as one of the game’s most exciting talents.
The Mets acknowledged the honor on X. “Juan Soto: National League MVP Finalist ,” the team posted. If Soto takes home the award it would mark the first MVP of his career.
Juan Soto: National League MVP Finalist pic.twitter.com/FJgFQDEc14
— New York Mets (@Mets) November 4, 2025
While the Mets missed the playoffs, Soto’s performance gave the franchise a clear focal point to build around as they retool the roster for 2026. His MVP-caliber campaign has only strengthened his standing as one of baseball’s most complete players. His trophy case is already stacked with four All-Star selections and five Silver Slugger Awards.
In six of his eight MLB seasons, he has finished in the top 10 of MVP voting. Soto won a World Series title in 2019 during his time with the Washington Nationals and is now aiming to bring that same success to the Mets, who have not won a championship since 1986.
He also remained durable, missing just two games all season. As the Mets look to rebound in 2026, Soto will continue to anchor the lineup and shape the franchise’s future. His first year in New York delivered everything the team hoped for and more.
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