Juan Soto Faces Fan Backlash After Lack of Hustle in Mets vs Yankees Loss

Juan Soto faced criticism from fans after the New York Mets outfielder appeared not to run hard on a game-ending double play against his former team, the New York Yankees.

Soto returned to the Bronx on Friday night as the Mets began their series against the Yankees. The star outfielder has been under the spotlight since leaving New York and signing a record-breaking $765 million contract with the Mets.

The ninth inning provided another dramatic moment in his return. With the Mets trailing 6-4, Soto came to the plate against Yankees reliever David Bednar with hopes of keeping the game alive.

Instead, Soto hit a ground ball that resulted in a game-ending double play. While the play ended the Mets’ comeback attempt, fans quickly focused on Soto’s effort while running toward first base.

Fans Criticize Juan Soto’s Effort

Several Yankees fans and baseball followers took to social media to criticize Soto after seeing the replay. His lack of urgency while running to first became the main talking point following the final out.

Some fans sarcastically connected the perceived lack of hustle with Soto’s enormous contract with the Mets.

One fan wrote, “Juan Soto’s wallet weighing him down,” while another joked that “his wallet is just too fat.”

Other reactions were more direct, with some fans describing the moment as a poor look and suggesting that Soto would have faced stronger criticism from teammates and coaches in previous eras.

The criticism comes with Soto already carrying significant expectations because of his massive contract. Every mistake or controversial moment is likely to receive additional attention because of the historic value of his deal.

Soto Has Had an Injury-Interrupted Mets Season

Soto’s second season with the Mets has not gone entirely according to plan. The All-Star outfielder has dealt with two calf injuries that have limited his availability during the campaign.

Those injuries have restricted Soto to 96 games this season, making it difficult for him to maintain the consistency expected from one of baseball’s biggest stars.

Despite the setbacks, Soto remains a central figure in the Mets lineup and one of the most closely watched players in Major League Baseball.

Juan Soto Discusses Yankees Fans’ Reaction

Soto’s return to the Bronx was always expected to attract attention because of his decision to leave the Yankees for the Mets.

After spending a season with the Yankees, Soto signed his record-setting contract with their cross-town rivals. The move has made him a target for some Yankees supporters, who have regularly booed him during his appearances in the Bronx.

Before Friday’s game, Soto was asked about the hostile reception he has received from sections of the Yankees fanbase.

“Who knows? But they know I gave my best to them. Some of them appreciate it. Some of them don’t. You can’t control that,” Soto said.

His comments reflected his understanding that the reaction from fans is largely outside his control. Soto remains focused on his career with the Mets despite the intense attention surrounding his return to New York.

Yankees Beat Mets 6-4 in Bronx Showdown

The Yankees ultimately secured a 6-4 victory over the Mets in Friday’s series opener, extending their winning streak to four games.

Cody Bellinger and Ben Rice provided the early offensive spark for the Yankees, with both players hitting home runs during the game.

The Mets attempted to mount a late comeback, but the rally ended when Soto’s ground ball turned into a double play in the ninth inning.

Soto finished the night 1-for-5 at the plate as the Yankees held on for the victory.

Pressure Continues to Follow Soto

Because of his record-breaking contract and his move from the Yankees to the Mets, Soto remains under a huge spotlight whenever he plays in the Bronx.

The latest controversy over his effort on the final play is unlikely to end that attention. While one play does not define an entire season, the incident has given Yankees fans another reason to criticize the former star.

Soto will now look to respond on the field as the Mets continue their series against the Yankees and attempt to turn around the result from Friday night.