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Juan Soto Targets September Return as Mets Star Faces Salary Spotlight

2026-08-27 · Juan Soto · Player Focus

Juan Soto remains on track for a September return after updating his recovery from a left calf strain. The Mets outfielder said he is in a good spot following a deliberate running program and still expects to be active this month. His last appearance came on July 24 against the Dodgers when the injury occurred.

How Serious Is Juan Soto's Injury

Soto suffered a Grade 2 strain in his left calf during the sixth inning against Los Angeles on July 24. An MRI the next day confirmed the issue and he was placed on the 10-day injured list on July 25. This marks his second calf problem of 2026 after a milder Grade 1 strain in his right calf sidelined him for three weeks in April. He has not been cleared for baseball activity despite restarting wind sprints on August 14.

What Is the Mets' Timeline for His Return

The team faces a hard deadline with the Subway Series looming. Soto would need to be active by September 11 to be eligible for those games against the Yankees. Manager Andy Green has emphasized protecting the 2027 season over pushing for a 2026 playoff push, reflecting the club's cautious approach with multiple players on the injured list including closer Devin Williams.

Why Is Juan Soto in the Salary Spotlight

Despite his absence, Soto leads MLB in 2026 earnings at $61.875 million according to present-day calculations by the MLB Labor Relations Department. This figure places him ahead of Cody Bellinger ($42.5 million) and Bo Bichette ($42 million) among the top ten highest-paid players. Five of the top ten earners are projected to miss the playoffs including Soto and his Mets teammate Bichette.

  • Juan Soto has not played since July 24 due to a Grade 2 left calf strain
  • He targets a September return with September 11 as the Subway Series eligibility cutoff
  • Soto is the highest-paid player in MLB for 2026 at $61.875 million
  • The Mets are prioritizing 2027 competitiveness over rushing his 2026 recovery

More Juan Soto news →