When the New York Mets gave Juan Soto a record contract last winter, they knew exactly what they were buying – a superstar bat built for the big stage. Over the last three months, Soto has lived up to the hype. He has been one of the most consistent hitters in baseball, putting up an impressive .265 average, 43 homers, 36 steals, and 105 RBIs, while also leading the NL in on-base percentage.
Even as the Mets have struggled to stay in the playoff race, Soto has kept producing. He was the first player in MLB this season to reach the 30-homer, 30-stolen-base mark. The 26-year-old crushed some of the best pitchers in the league, but when asked recently, Juan Soto admitted there is one arm that has given him fits.
During an interview with BR Walk-Off, Juan Soto didn’t hesitate when asked about the toughest pitcher he has ever faced.
“So many lefties. Definitely Chris Sale has got to be up there. The nastiest pitches I have ever faced. A funky move and he throws 98 mph,” Soto said.
Soto’s numbers reveal that in 11 career plate appearances against Sale, he is just 1-for-11 with six strikeouts.
Juan Soto And The Mets Hang Onto Playoff Hopes
The Mets, meanwhile, are still hanging on in the NL wild-card race. They sit just above the Reds and Diamondbacks, clinging to the final spot. Thursday’s 8-5 win over the Cubs helped keep them alive, but the margin for error is razor-thin.
Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor have done their part in carrying the offense. But for New York to sneak into October, they will need more from the rotation and bullpen, which have been their biggest weakness this season.
For Soto, the focus is simple – Keep hitting, keep leading, and keep the Mets’ postseason hopes alive. The good news for New York is he won’t have to see Sale again this season.
The post Juan Soto Says Toughest Pitches He’s Faced Were From Atlanta Braves Ace originally published on Total Pro Sports.