Juan Soto's Return: Mets' Homestand Turning Point

0:00On April 20th, the New York Mets are in a deep slump, dropping 11 games in a row, and they desperately need a spark. Their big-off season signing, four-time All-Star Juan Soto, has been sideline with a right calf strain since early April, but good news is coming. The team expects him back during their upcoming home stand starting Tuesday against the twins and running through April 30th. Soto hit the injured list on April 6th, retroactive to April 4th, with an original recovery timeline of two to three weeks. He's right on schedule, having ramped up with running drills last Tuesday alongside batting practice. Now, the focus is on building intensity, like adding shuffles and quick starts and stops. Without Soto, the Mets offense has flatlined, averaging just 1.9 runs per game and getting shut out three times. Manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed he's still on track, while shortstop Francisco Lindor called him a top two hitter in the league, irreplaceable for. Lengthening the lineup.

1:00Before the injury, Soto was scorching at 355 batting, 412 on base, 516 slugging, with one homer and two doubles. Historically, only the 2017 Dodgers lost 11 straight and reached the playoffs in the wildcard era since 1995. Soto's return could flip the script for this teetering squad, but as Lindor stressed, the whole team has to execute together, no leaning on one guy too. Save the season. Keep an eye on that homestand, it might just be the turning point. This has been MLB News Today, powered by AI. I'm Corey with The Story.