Mets' Carlos Mendoza Announces Juan Soto Update Before Dodgers Game

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Apr 13, 2026 9:10 PM ET

The New York Mets outfield is currently missing its biggest piece in outfielder Juan Soto. The 27-year-old superstar has not played since April 3 after suffering a right calf strain in a game against the San Francisco Giants.

Monday marks 10 days since Soto originally suffered the injury, and without him the Mets have gone 3-5, currently in the midst of a five-game losing streak. It makes sense why New York is sputtering without Soto.

He was off to a strong start this year across his first eight games, posting a .355 batting average, .412 on-base percentage, .928 OPS, one home run and five RBIs. Soto is doing his best to live up to the expectations that followed him after signing a 15-year, $765 million contract extension two offseasons ago.

New York Mets outfielder Juan Soto (22) © Amber Searls-Imagn Images

As the Mets prepare for a series on Monday against the Los Angeles Dodgers , the team is eagerly awaiting the return of Soto. New York has been shuffling through its organizational options in the outfield, with Ronny Mauricio being optioned before Monday’s game against Los Angeles in favor of 12-year veteran Tommy Pham, who will get the start on Monday.

However, nobody can replace the production of Soto, who is a four-time All-Star and six-time Silver Slugger. On Monday, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza announced an update on Soto’s status.

“Juan Soto (calf strain) is still expected back within 2-3 weeks of his April 3 injury, per Carlos Mendoza, but he has not started a running program. It's possible he could undergo another MRI if things don't advance, but as of right now, the Mets are content with his progression,” reported Anthony DiComo of MLB.com.

Juan Soto (calf strain) is still expected back within 2-3 weeks of his April 3 injury, per Carlos Mendoza, but he has not started a running program. It's possible he could undergo another MRI if things don't advance, but as of right now, the Mets are content with his progression.
— Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) April 14, 2026

Given his timeline, Soto is going to have to progress to running and other baseball activities to return by the end of April, which is the end of his three-week window.

The fact that he has not yet begun running is slightly concerning, and another MRI remains on the table for Soto, which would be the worst-case scenario for the Mets if he misses extended time. They are currently 7-9 and sitting in last place in the National League East, but the season is young and there is plenty of time to turn it around.

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

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