Key Star sent shockwaves through the baseball world by departing the New York Yankees to sign a historic 15-year, $765 million contract with the New York Mets. Mets fans erupted in celebration over the monumental deal, and his new teammate, Pete Alonso, is equally thrilled to welcome the Dominican slugger.
In an interview with Foul Territory, Alonso reflected on Soto’s impact, highlighting how six seasons of competing against him deepened his admiration for the outfielder’s talent.
“Adding Juan is massive because, after facing him for six years, we all know he’s a baller. He’s a game-changing player, and you get tired of seeing him deliver clutch hits or make big defensive plays,” Alonso remarked.
Alonso’s excitement extends beyond just adding a star to the roster. Soto, a four-time All-Star and World Series champion, has consistently been one of the most feared hitters in the league. Now, alongside Alonso and shortstop Francisco Lindor, Soto’s presence could significantly enhance the Mets’ quest for a National League title.
Soto made his MLB debut with the Nationals in 2018, while Alonso joined the Mets in 2019. The two faced off as division rivals for five seasons before Soto’s trade to the Padres. Now, they’ll unite in the Mets’ lineup, bringing their impressive power numbers—Alonso’s 226 home runs and 586 RBIs and Soto’s 201 home runs and 592 RBIs—to the same squad.
The Mets’ offensive core, featuring Alonso and Soto, looks formidable. New York recently unveiled a lineup including Lindor, Soto, Alonso, Brandon Nimmo, and Mark Vientos, which could make life difficult for opposing pitchers. In a dominant 7-0 shutout against the Nationals in Grapefruit League action, the Mets showcased their offensive firepower, tallying five hits, six runs, a double, a home run, and a walk.
With Soto’s elite hitting and the Mets’ deep lineup, the team’s offensive potential in 2025 is generating plenty of excitement among fans. If early performances are any indication, the Mets could be a serious force in the National League.