Juan Soto’s free-agent journey has culminated in a landmark 15-year, $765 million deal with the Mets, according to reliable sources. As Soto prepares to don the Mets’ uniform, the 2025 season is already sparking interest, promising a series of anticipated games and rivalry matchups.
The upcoming season begins with Soto making his debut for the Mets against the Astros on March 27. Fans remember Soto’s impactful first game with the Yankees, where he made significant plays that contributed to a win. His debut with the Mets is expected to generate similar excitement, especially against a strong team like Houston.
Citi Field will see Soto’s home debut on April 4, where Mets fans are eager to witness their new team star in action against the Blue Jays. The Blue Jays were reportedly one of the teams competing for Soto’s signature, adding an extra layer of intrigue to this match.
The Mets-Phillies game on April 21 comes with its history, as the Mets previously eliminated the Phillies from the playoffs. With Soto added to the roster, this matchup promises to be even more intense, possibly redefining the dynamic between these teams.
Soto’s return to Nationals Park on April 25 will be noteworthy, as it marks his first appearance there as a member of a division rival. The Nationals, who traded Soto to the Padres earlier, are now on the rise, but facing Soto as a Met poses a new challenge for them.
The Subway Series against the Yankees on May 16 is set to escalate in intensity. Having spent a remarkable year with the Yankees, Soto’s return to Yankee Stadium will be closely watched, particularly after he chose the Mets over the Yankees in a dramatic free-agent decision.
When the Mets visit Fenway Park on May 19, it will be a moment of interest since the Red Sox had hoped to secure Soto for themselves. Boston can, however, take comfort in facing him less frequently now that he is out of the AL East.
The Dodgers will play the Mets on May 23, where Shohei Ohtani and Soto are expected to provide an exciting face-off. The Dodgers have been dominant, but with Soto now in the Mets lineup, their path to another title becomes more challenging.
Potentially shifting the NL East power balance, the Mets will first face the Braves on June 17. This matchup is pivotal, with the Braves often leading the division. The addition of Soto could greatly influence the division standings, especially with key Braves players returning from injury.
On July 4, the Mets host the Yankees, marking a significant matchup. Soto’s move from the Yankees to the Mets adds an extra layer to what is always a heated intercity rivalry.
Lastly, on July 28, Soto returns to San Diego to face the Padres. Soto was traded from the Padres to the Yankees and now to the Mets, and the reception from the Padres fans, already icy, may become even colder. This matchup could affect the competitive hierarchy within the National League.
The Mets’ acquisition of Juan Soto is poised to significantly influence the 2025 MLB season, with several key matchups highlighting his impact on the field. As fans gear up for these anticipated games, Soto’s presence is expected to add a new dimension to the Mets’ strategy and rivalry dynamics.
Source: Mlb