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Mets’ Juan Soto Has Words After Unexpected Lineup Change

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jake Elman | Last updated May 24, 2025 8:20 AM ET

New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza kept a simple Juan Soto approach over the first 48 games: hit Soto second and hope for the best.

However, Soto’s well-documented struggles forced Mendoza to make an unexpected move earlier this week: demote Soto to the three-hole and promote veteran outfielder Starling Marte to the No. 2 spot.

Although Soto has plenty of experience hitting third, he’s almost exclusively batted second the last two seasons. It’d be one thing if Mendoza moved Soto down for All-Star first baseman Pete Alonso or veteran left fielder Brandon Nimmo, but for Marte?

“I don’t mind,” Soto told reporters.

“I think I’m already used to it,” Soto continued, according to The Athletic. “I don’t mind hitting second or third. I feel comfortable in either spot.”

Mendoza said Soto, who has dealt with accusations regarding a lack of hustle and enthusiasm amid a slow start, didn’t fight back or question his manager.

“Whenever you want to do it,” Soto told Mendoza, “let’s do it.”

Soto owns a .266 lifetime average with 77 home runs, 205 RBI, and a .881 OPS in 1,875 career at-bats hitting second. However, he’s batted .287 with 73 homers, 229 RBI, and a .980 OPS in 430 fewer at-bats as a No. 3 hitter.

Soto primarily hit third with the San Diego Padres during the 2023 season. The New York Yankees batted him second ahead of captain Aaron Judge last year.

Unfortunately for the Mets, the lineup change isn’t helping Soto turn his season around. He’s 0-for-8 with two walks and an RBI since moving to the second spot.

Soto went hitless over five at-bats in Friday’s 13-inning loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers. It is unclear where he’ll hit against Dodgers starter Tony Gonsolin on Saturday, though Mendoza hinted he’ll keep Soto third for the near future.

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

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