The New York Mets have a reloaded, new‑look roster prepared for the 2026 MLB season, built around their two biggest superstars: shortstop Francisco Lindor and outfielder Juan Soto. Both players are locked in long term, especially Soto, who signed his massive 15‑year, $765 million contract last winter, the largest deal in MLB history.
Soto lived up to expectations in his first year in Queens. The 27‑year‑old posted a .263 batting average, .396 on‑base percentage, .921 OPS, 43 home runs and 105 RBIs across 160 appearances.
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He also emerged as a threat on the basepaths, swiping 38 bags to lead the National League. His elite plate discipline remained a defining trait as well, setting a franchise record with 127 walks in a single season.
New York Mets right fielder Juan Soto (22) © Troy Taormina-Imagn Images
(© Troy Taormina-Imagn Images)
Soto spent the past two weeks away from Mets camp while competing in the World Baseball Classic for the Dominican Republic.
Although the Dominicans were eliminated by Team USA in the semifinal by a 2‑1 final, Soto performed up to his standards on the global stage.
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Across six appearances, he posted a .261 batting average, .393 on‑base percentage and .915 OPS with two home runs, four RBIs and five walks.
After the Dominican Republic was eliminated on Sunday, Soto still had not returned to Mets camp or appeared in any spring training action until Thursday. New York announced its spring training lineup for the matchup against the Houston Astros, officially reinserting Soto and placing him second in the order while starting him in left field.
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Many of the Mets regulars are also in the lineup, making Soto’s return especially important as the team begins to shape what its Opening Day order will look like.
With Soto sandwiched between Lindor and Bo Bichette, the Mets are getting an early look at the top‑of‑the‑order trio they expect to lean on heavily this season.
Soto’s focus now shifts back to the Mets and continuing to be the player he has been over his eight MLB seasons. He is a four‑time All‑Star, six‑time Silver Slugger and one of the best hitters the sport has ever seen.
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With his return from the WBC, the Mets can begin building toward a season in which Soto is expected to lead the charge in their pursuit of their first World Series title since 1986.
Related: Mets Add Former Player After Unfortunate News at Spring Training
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Mar 19, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.