NEW YORK — For the first time in five seasons, Juan Soto will not be heading to the MLB All-Star Game. The New York Mets outfielder, despite a strong showing in recent weeks, was not voted in by fans nor selected by managers and players as a reserve — ending a streak of four consecutive All-Star appearances.
The 25-year-old slugger took the news with grace but didn’t hide his disappointment when speaking to reporters after Sunday’s game.
“Sometimes you’re gonna make it and sometimes you don’t,” Soto said.
When asked specifically about his impressive performance in June, which included a surge in both OPS and on-base percentage, Soto responded with brutal honesty.
“It looks like [they] didn’t. I’ve just got to be better.”
Soto’s omission comes as a surprise to many, given his consistent plate discipline, top-tier walk rate, and growing leadership presence in the Mets’ clubhouse. However, in a crowded National League outfield pool — and with the Mets struggling overall — even strong individual numbers sometimes aren’t enough.
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This All-Star break will mark a rare midseason pause for Soto, who has become a staple in the Midsummer Classic since breaking out with the Nationals. Whether it fuels a second-half surge remains to be seen — but if his tone Sunday was any indication, Soto has already turned the page.