Juan Soto Progressing in Recovery as Mets Manage Outfield Without Star

The New York Mets continue to operate without star outfielder Juan Soto after he exited the lineup following the team’s 10-3 win over the San Francisco Giants earlier this month. While his absence is expected to extend for at least another week, encouraging signs have emerged in his recovery process.

Soto was placed on the 10-day injured list on April 4 due to a calf strain, making him eligible to return in mid-April at the earliest. However, his timeline remains flexible depending on how quickly he progresses through rehabilitation.

Recent updates suggest the injury is not considered serious, offering optimism for both Soto and the Mets as they look to maintain early-season momentum.

In the meantime, New York has adjusted its outfield rotation to compensate for the loss of one of its most productive hitters.

1. Early Recovery And Controlled Activity

Soto has already resumed light baseball activities, including indoor hitting sessions and catch, signaling that he is gradually reintroducing baseball movements into his routine. These developments indicate positive progress in his recovery from the calf strain. According to MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo, Soto has been able to swing a bat indoors and participate in controlled drills. However, he has not yet begun any form of running program. That limitation remains the key hurdle in his rehabilitation, as lower-body recovery is essential for his explosive style of play. Until he is cleared to run, his return timeline will remain uncertain. Despite that restriction, the Mets remain encouraged that Soto’s recovery is progressing without setbacks at this stage.

2. Mets Adjusting Outfield Rotation

In Soto’s absence, the Mets have turned to a combination of players to fill the outfield gaps. Carson Benge, Brett Baty, and Tyrone Taylor have all seen increased opportunities as the team rotates personnel. Manager Carlos Mendoza has also experimented with different defensive alignments, including using Taylor and Baty in corner outfield roles depending on matchups. The goal has been to maintain offensive balance while preserving defensive stability. Additionally, Luis Robert Jr. has handled duties in center field, helping stabilize the overall outfield structure during Soto’s absence. This rotational approach reflects the Mets’ effort to remain competitive while avoiding over-reliance on any single replacement option.

3. Offensive Impact And Return Outlook

Before his injury, Soto had been one of the Mets’ most productive hitters in the early part of the season. In 34 plate appearances, he posted a .355 batting average with a .412 on-base percentage, along with 11 hits, one home run, and five RBIs. His strong start at the plate underscored his importance to the lineup, particularly as a consistent on-base presence and run producer in the middle of the order. The Mets are hopeful that his return will restore stability to an offense still adjusting to his absence. However, the team is expected to proceed cautiously to avoid any setback in his recovery. As Soto continues to progress through non-running activities, the organization remains focused on ensuring he returns at full strength rather than rushing him back prematurely.