Mets star Juan Soto sidelined with illness ahead of Marlins clash

New York Mets slugger Juan Soto was a late scratch from the Sunday lineup against the Miami Marlins due to an illness characterised by flu-like symptoms. The 27-year-old outfielder, originally slotted to bat third as the designated hitter, is experiencing fever, body aches, and sleep deprivation. Rookie outfielder A.J. Ewing will bat third, with MJ Melendez replacing Soto in the designated hitter role.

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed that Soto had been battling the condition for three days prior to the game. Mendoza noted that the illness is not an isolated incident, stating that a significant number of team members have been affected by similar symptoms over the past week. “Hopefully, he recovers and we have a player for today,” Mendoza said regarding Soto’s status.

The absence of Soto creates a notable gap in a lineup that has struggled offensively in the series so far. The Mets scored only one run and recorded three hits in each of the first two games against Miami. Soto has been a key contributor in his second season with the club, recording 10 home runs and an OPS of .949.

The team’s roster is already under pressure from a separate injury crisis. Star shortstop Francisco Lindor has been sidelined since April 22 due to a calf injury. Additionally, regulars Francisco Alvarez, Luis Robert Jr., and Jorge Polanco have been ruled out due to injuries, further thinning the available playing staff.

The specific nature of the illness has not been formally diagnosed, with officials describing it only as flu-like symptoms. The extent of the outbreak within the squad remains vague, though Mendoza indicated that the issue has been persistent for the team over the last seven days.