In the world of baseball, even the smallest gestures can speak volumes. And sometimes, player gestures speak more than words. A classic case was caught during the recent Mets-Red Sox game when cameras captured something that left fans uneasy. Francisco Lindor had just hit a home run and was happily returning to the dugout, when his teammates rushed to him. Juan Soto was there too, and he stepped in for a fist bump.
But it didn’t quite feel right. Sure, he raised his hand for a bump—but the energy was not there. No eye contact, no smile, just a quick mechanical motion. For a player who is known for his spark and his swagger, the moment felt weird. Social media caught on to this fast, and rumors of something being off between Lindor and Soto started.
Then, MLB insider Mike Rodriguez added fuel to the fire by saying, “You are not the same, #JuanSoto… There is a different aura around you.” He praised Soto’s talent but said that his presence looks different. For someone carrying the hopes of the Dominican Republic and the $765 deal, this shift is difficult to ignore.
Francisco Lindor does something unique as a leader that players in the Mets’ clubhouse credit him for – he goes to each teammates’ locker and checks in on them after every series.
From @WillSammon of @TheAthletic:
Lindor: “For me, it is more instinctual. It’s like walking into… pic.twitter.com/vvUrSGVAtC
— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) May 29, 2025
However, it seems like Juan Soto and Lindor might not have a rift after all. Well, it turns out that while Juan Soto has been distant from the team, Lindor has been everything that screams “leader.” Not just because of his decade long big-league experience, but because he makes the effort of going to each teammate’s locker and check in on them after every series. Not everyone does that.
When Soto was asked about this and Lindor’s impact on the clubhouse, he didn’t hesitate to compliment Lindor. “I really respect that. He really cares about the guys. That’s huge for a team — to show a little love to every player and have them know that you always have their back, even if they have a bad day. It’s big time.” So no beef—just admiration, and honestly, there is a lot to admire.
Lindor might not have been officially named captain, even though there was a lot of noise about him being selected as one—he is the New York Mets’ heartbeat. Lindor, when asked about his habit, being the humble guy he is simply said he does it because for him it’s like, “walking into my house and saying hello to my kids.” Even pitcher Sean Manaea appreciated it, “It goes a long way in making people feel welcome…… It’s very unique, special.” This is the kind of unity that matters in a high-pressure clubhouse. Still, concerns about Soto’s energy are on. For a franchise that has invested so much in him, the disconnect is tough to ignore.
Where’s Juan Soto’s fire? The numbers paint a stark picture
Now it is natural that how one feels is how one projects. When Juan Soto was with the New York Yankees, under the protection of Aaron Judge, he was a different player altogether. He was able to put his best foot forward and his smile and celebrations reflected that. Now he may have the richest contract, but with downward spiraling things, his demeanor seems changed. It’s no surprise, because really Soto’s season is looking bad, the once most feared hitter is hitting just .244.
Soto’s bat has been quiet with just eight home runs and 25 RBIs. The same player who boasted once of an OPS of nearly 200 is sitting at 115—is this what a generational player is- is what many fans have questioned. Because on paper, a generational player can carry the team, regardless of the team turmoil. His at-bats also lack the usual fire. According to Justin Havens of Underdog Fantasy, his bat speed has taken a massive dip. From 75.4 mph in 2024 to 73.3 mph this year—it’s the fifth biggest drop in MLB. His fast swing rate, the percentage of swings at 75 mph or higher, has also fallen from 59% to a drastic 38%. This is not a slump but a red flag.
Scott Boras did try to offer some perspective this week, reminding people that being the highest-paid baseball player comes with a mountain of pressures. But honestly, playing in New York expects more, and they want it now. They banked on a five-time Silver Slugger, a World Series champ, and one of the most gifted hitters of his generation—not just anyone else. The clock until the crowd completely turns on Soto seems to be ticking loudly now.
Soto will get his next chance to reset everything on Friday night at Citi Field against the Rockies. Do you think he can make a comeback? Let us know.
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