The New York Mets could have outfielder Juan Soto back in their lineup Thursday, according to Sportsnet New York insider Chelsea James.
Soto, who exited Tuesday’s 9-6 loss to the Chicago Cubs in the fourth inning with left side back tightness, may feel well enough to serve as the designated hitter, Janes reported. The Mets have yet to submit a lineup; however, the Mets will be happy to hear that the injury may not be as serious as it could have been.
Soto sat out of both games of Wednesday’s split doubleheader against the Cubs as he continued receiving treatment, with manager Carlos Mendoza saying the team planned to monitor his condition before determining whether additional testing would be needed.
In 61 games this season, Soto is batting .299 with 17 home runs, 38 RBIs and a .965 OPS, the highest OPS in the National League.
His availability has been limited throughout the year. Soto and shortstop Francisco Lindor, the team’s most valuable players, have not had a lot of time together on the field, with the pair featured in 12 games this season. Lindor returned from a calf strain Wednesday, in time for the Mets’ second game against Chicago.
Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
The Mets went 3-16 in games without Juan Soto this season, which explains why the team is being extremely cautious with the situation so as not to aggravate the injury that would keep him out any longer. It’s been a rough 2026 as New York enters Thursday 12 games under .500 at 34-46.
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