Mets Legend Jose Reyes Comes to Juan Soto’s Defense Amid Criticism of Star’s Performance
By Grok News Staff
August 18, 2025
New York Mets legend Jose Reyes has stepped up to bat for Juan Soto, dismissing criticism of the superstar outfielder’s performance in his debut season with the team as unwarranted. In an exclusive interview with TMZ Sports, Reyes emphasized that Soto, despite high expectations, is still delivering solid numbers and remains one of baseball’s elite players.
Reyes, who spent 12 seasons with the Mets and is remembered for his speed, hitting prowess, and four All-Star appearances, spoke candidly about the pressure Soto faces after signing a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract last offseason. “He got like what 28 homers, he’s hitting .250 something, you know people expect him to do a little bit better,” Reyes told TMZ Sports. “But for his first year, I think he do good.”
The former shortstop pointed out that fans and critics often set unrealistic standards, explaining that Soto “can’t hit a home run every at-bat.” He added, “If you put his number where he ranks with let’s say [the] top 20 Major League players right now, he’s there. I think he’s going to end with more than 35 homers.” Reyes’ comments come as Soto has faced scrutiny for not fully living up to the hype surrounding his massive deal, particularly amid the Mets’ post-All-Star break slump.
Soto, 26, joined the Mets after a stellar 2024 season with the crosstown rival New York Yankees, where he hit 41 home runs and posted a .288/.419/.569 slash line. His move to Queens was seen as a franchise-altering acquisition, but the 2025 campaign has been a mixed bag. As of August 18, Soto’s 28 home runs and approximate .250 batting average represent a dip from his career norms, though his on-base plus slugging (OPS) remains respectable. Critics have highlighted his occasional defensive lapses and the team’s overall struggles, with the Mets fighting for a National League Wild Card spot after a strong first half.
This isn’t the first time Reyes has addressed Soto’s challenges. Earlier in the season, during Soto’s slow start in April, Reyes suggested the outfielder might be pressing too hard under the weight of expectations. “Maybe he’s trying to do a little bit too much. But it’s only 15 games, and I think the fans expect Soto to hit a homer every single day. That’s not gonna happen,” Reyes said at the time. Soto had just one homer in his first 74 plate appearances, prompting concerns about whether the pressure of playing in New York was affecting him.
Despite the ups and downs, Soto has shown flashes of brilliance, including a hot streak in June where he scored 25 runs, tying him with Mets greats like David Wright and Reyes himself for one of the franchise’s top monthly performances. However, the Mets’ recent skid—marked by blown leads and an inability to mount comebacks—has amplified calls for more from their highest-paid player.
Reyes also touched on the Mets’ broader issues in his TMZ interview, noting the team has “hit a wall” since the All-Star break. With the postseason hanging in the balance, Reyes expressed optimism about Soto’s ability to finish strong and help turn things around.
As a Mets icon who experienced the highs and lows of New York baseball—including leading the team to the 2006 NLCS—Reyes’ defense carries weight among fans. Soto, for his part, has remained focused on the field, often crediting teammates and emphasizing team success over individual stats.
With the regular season winding down, all eyes will be on Soto to deliver in clutch moments. If Reyes’ prediction holds true, the critics may soon be silenced as the Mets push for October baseball.