As the 2025 MLB All-Star Game approaches, the spotlight turns into the outfield of the National League, with plenty of talent and competitiveness. Among the candidates is Juan Soto, a $765 million acquisition of the New York Mets.
Despite recent increases in performance, Soto faces tough competition from emerging stars and fan favorites. Fan votes are underway, and questions remain. Will Soto secure his place among the National League elites in time for the Midsummer Lassic?
Star’s slow start
Juan Soto’s transition to Mets was not smooth. After signing a record-breaking contract, expectations were high. However, his early season performance was desired with a batting average of around .233 and an OPS of below .800. These numbers are not distinctive for Soto caliber players and raise concerns among fans and analysts.
Pete Crow Armstrong is pure chaos⚡️
Last night he became the fourth fastest player in the modern era, reaching 20 steals and 15 home runs, and is currently at a 40-40 season pace. pic.twitter.com/uedcme9u27
– MLB Europe (@mlbeurope) June 4, 2025
What exacerbates the problem is the depth of talent in the National League outfield. Players like Pete Crow-Armstrong, Corbin Carroll and James Wood have emerged as horrifying candidates, boasting impressive statistics and are attracting the attention of fans across the country. Their performance sets a high bar and makes Soto’s path to the All-Star Game more challenging.
Ongoing revival
Despite a rocky start, Soto shows signs of a revival. In recent games, he exhibited power and plate discipline, making him an eternal All-Star and hit three home runs in four games leading up to the All-Star voting period. This rise in performance suggests that Soto finds his rhythm, rekinds hope among Mets fans, and strengthens his All-Star qualifications.
The third time in Juan Soto’s final four games! 💥 pic.twitter.com/rmjcm6rzmb
-MLB (@MLB) June 4, 2025
Furthermore, Soto’s achievements cannot be ignored. His reputation as one of the game’s best batsmen, four-time All-Star and five-time Silver Slugger Award winner, remains intact. His ability to pull walks, hit for power and play in clutch situations makes him a valuable asset to any lineup. Soto was able to get into the All-Star conversation very well if he continues this upward trajectory.
Fan voting factors
The All-Star Game selection process relies heavily on fan votes and becomes a popular contest, just like merit-based selection. Soto’s early seasonal slump may have undermined his appeal, but his recent surge offers an opportunity to shake up public opinion. Engaging with fans, showing him his personality and providing outstanding performances will help boost his vote counting.
But the competition remains stiff. Crow-Armstrong and Carroll not only delivered statistically, but also captured the fan’s imagination with their dynamic play. Soto must overcome both the statistical flaws and the narrative momentum of these new stars. It’s a tall order, but it’s not enough for players of his height to overcome.
Juan Soto’s journey to the 2025 MLB All-Star Game represents the challenges faced by established stars in the face of emerging talent and fluctuating performances. His early season struggle put him at a disadvantage, but his recent revival offers a faint hope. As fans votes continue, Soto’s fate lies not only in his continued performance, but also in his ability to reunite with the fans and remind him of the brilliance he has won his massive contract. The road to Atlanta may be steep, but for Juan Soto, the climb is not over.