Juan Soto Remains Optimistic on Mets Playoff Chances

Juan Soto expressed continued belief in the New York Mets' ability to reach the playoffs despite the team sitting 20 games behind the division-leading Atlanta Braves. His comments came after a 10-4 win over the Tampa Bay Rays on September 2 2026, where he went 2-for-5 with a home run and an RBI. Soto said 'We're not finished yet, we're not done yet. Who knows what can happen. Finish strong…carry that into October or the next season.' The Mets were 63-77 at the time and last in the NL East with 22 games remaining.

How does Juan Soto's salary compare to other top earners in MLB for 2026?

Juan Soto is the highest-paid player in Major League Baseball for the 2026 season, earning $61.875 million according to present-day calculations by the MLB Labor Relations Department obtained by USA TODAY Sports. Five of the top 10 earners, including Soto and Bichette, are not expected to reach the playoffs.

What home run potential does Juan Soto show in upcoming matchups?

Juan Soto is featured as a top home run prop bet for the September 4 2026 matchup between the San Francisco Giants and New York Mets at Citi Field. He comes into the game after hitting a important eighth-inning solo shot in the series finale against Tampa Bay. His power threat is highlighted alongside other sluggers like Wilyer Abreu, with Soto listed at +354 odds to hit a home run in the contest.

How have fans reacted to Juan Soto's postseason optimism?

MLB fans responded with humor and skepticism to Juan Soto's confident remarks about the Mets' playoff chances, with many joking on social media that they 'didn't realize Juan Soto was a comedian.' Despite the lighthearted tone, Soto finished the series against the Rays strong, contributing to a bullpen-backed victory that included three RBIs each from Brett Baty and Nicholas Morabito.

• Juan Soto earned $61.875 million in 2026, making him MLB's highest-paid player
• The Mets were 20 games behind the Atlanta Braves and 10.5 games behind the final Wild Card spot on September 2 2026
• Soto hit a home run in the September 2 2026 series finale vs Tampa Bay and was 2-for-5 with an RBI
• He is projected as a +354 home run bet in the Mets-Giants game on September 4 2026 at Citi Field