The New York Mets feature one of the most talented duos in baseball, headlined by outfielder Juan Soto and shortstop Francisco Lindor.
This offseason, the front office has pivoted, moving on from several familiar faces to build around Soto and Lindor with hopes of assembling a group capable of returning to the MLB playoffs in 2026.
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There is good reason to believe they can. Soto is locked in at the top of the batting order after signing a 15‑year, $765 million contract last winter.
The 27‑year‑old superstar posted a .263 batting average, .396 on‑base percentage, .921 OPS, 43 home runs and 105 RBIs in his first year in Queens across 160 games.
He set a franchise record with 127 walks, showcasing his elite plate discipline while also adding a new dimension to his game on the bases, swiping 38 bags to lead the National League.
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New York Mets right fielder Juan Soto (22)© Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
(© Sam Navarro-Imagn Images)
As Soto continues to enjoy his offseason, the baseball world is turning its attention to the World Baseball Classic, scheduled for March.
The international tournament arrives only once every four years, making it a major event for players eager to represent their countries. However, a recurring theme this January has been insurance complications preventing certain stars from participating.
Lindor, the Mets’ captain, was ruled ineligible after undergoing an offseason procedure to clear debris from his elbow, a significant blow for Team Puerto Rico.
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With that concern in mind, Sunday brought good news for Soto. He passed all required protocols and was officially cleared to join the Dominican Republic’s roster.
“#Mets OF Juan Soto has passed all the protocols and can be officially announced by the Dominican Republic for the World Baseball Classic,” reported Enrique Rojas of ESPN.
With his WBC status settled, Soto’s focus will soon shift back to the 2026 MLB season, where he will look to lead the Mets back to the postseason and continue building his individual legacy.
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He is a four‑time All‑Star, six‑time Silver Slugger winner, a batting champion and has six top‑10 finishes in MVP voting. Yet his most meaningful accolade to the Mets is likely his 2019 World Series title with the Washington Nationals.
His ultimate goal is to return to baseball’s biggest stage, this time in a Mets uniform, and the organization believes it has a roster capable of making that push.
Related: Mets’ Francisco Lindor Receives Unfortunate News Ahead of World Baseball Classic
This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Feb 1, 2026, where it first appeared in the MLB section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.