Buckle up—this one’s a bit controversial! Mets Hall of Famer Edgardo Alfonzo just created quite a stir by comparing the Mets’ young star Juan Soto to Barry Bonds! You know, the Barry Bonds—the home run king, the record breaker and, uh, yeah, he was tied to the PED controversy. It’s a pretty bold comparison, and fans are going nuts trying to figure out what it means.
The Mets were facing off against the Astros on March 6th in a spring training matchup. There, Juan Soto impressed Alfonzo with his performance at the plate. Alfonzo praised Soto, saying he “has the whole package,” highlighting his power, plate discipline, and ability to use the entire field. Alfonzo added that Soto “has that Barry Bonds kind of approach at the plate.” A bold comparison—while Bonds’ career totals may be impressive, he remains a polarizing figure due to his connection to performance-enhancing drugs.
Then why compare Soto to Bonds? Well, the two share a rare mix of power and patience. Soto drives the ball, has a good eye for bad pitches, and can launch it to all fields. In fact, he posted the best on-base season of any hitter in 2024. At the plate, he’s like a magician—just like Bonds in his prime.
Alfonzo’s remarks come from a place of high stature, given his in-depth understanding of the game. Alfonzo was a notable asset in the Mets’ playoffs in 1999 and 2000. Adding on, he was known for his reliable batting and defensive skills, earning him a spot in the Mets Hall of Fame in 2020. Through his relationship with current Mets manager Carlos Mendoza, Alfonzo has developed unique insights into the team and what Soto could contribute.
So, what does this all mean for Juan Soto?
Frankly, the numbers speak for themselves. As a professional hitter, he’s boasts a career batting average of .285 with 201 home runs and 592 RBIs. He’s a Home Run Derby champion and a batting title winner,. Furthermore, he contributed to the Washington Nationals’ World Series win in 2019. Soto’s got this incredible ability to make contact, draw walks, and hit for power to all fields. He’s basically a pitcher’s worst nightmare.
MLB, Baseball Herren, USA New York Yankees at Chicago White Sox Aug 13, 2024 Chicago, Illinois, USA New York Yankees outfielder Juan Soto 22 rounds the bases after hitting a solo home run against the Chicago White Sox during the seventh inning at Guaranteed Rate Field. Chicago Guaranteed Rate Field Illinois USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xKamilxKrzaczynskix 20240813_jhp_kb1_0289
But let’s address the elephant in the room: the Barry Bonds comparison. Bonds complicated character—an all-time great, linked to the steroids controversy. His legacy cannot be denied, however, it’s been tarnished. Will Soto build a similar legacy while keeping his record spotless? It’s the million-dollar question.
And it’s not the first time Soto has been compared to a legend. Back in 2024, Jimmy Rollins, the former Phillies great, described Soto’s batting pattern as similar to Bonds, “He’s the closest thing I’ve seen to Barry Bonds.” Even Barry Bonds himself recognized Soto’s skills but with a jab, “Soto, you ain’t got a chance on me!”
Since Soto first arrived in New York, comparisons and praise have become commonplace for him. He’s been called the next Ted Williams and the best pure hitter since Barry Bonds. With a blend of power and speed, he’s also been compared to Mickey Mantle. But in light of the Bonds comparison and the fact that he is playing in New York, the stakes are higher than ever. Can Soto rise to the occasion and prove himself? Only time will tell.
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