Juan Soto's Return Timeline Gets Clearer, and the Mets Need Him Bad

Juan Soto is getting close. The All-Star outfielder, who's been out since April 3 with a strained right calf, should be able to start running within the next couple of days, according to Mets manager Carlos Mendoza. But don't expect him back in the lineup right away, because Mendoza is still looking at a two to three week absence and hasn't ruled out sending Soto on a minor league rehab assignment before he rejoins the team.

"We just want to make sure he's fully healthy, especially when you're talking about a calf," Mendoza said.

Tommy Pham Steps In (At 38)

With Soto sidelined, the Mets called up outfielder Tommy Pham, who's having some fun with his unexpected opportunity. "The newest 38-year-old prospect," Pham joked before Monday night's game against the NL West-leading Los Angeles Dodgers.

Pham signed a minor league deal with New York on March 27 and was plucked from the minors after going 2 for 12 with a double, three walks, three strikeouts and one RBI in six games at Class A St. Lucie. Mendoza plans to use him mostly against left-handed pitching, keeping him on the bench otherwise. Against Dodgers left-hander Justin Wrobleski on Monday, Pham got the start in left field and batted seventh.

The veteran knows what he brings to a struggling team. "Body-wise, I'm in better shape than a lot of guys in the league," he said, "but that's just because how I work in the offseason." His routine since signing has been morning workouts and watching the team play at night.

The Mets Need All Hands on Deck

New York is sitting in the NL East basement at 7-9, and Pham sees the potential to turn things around. "Ultimately in New York, it's about winning," he said. "I see a lot of great things that we're doing, it's just a matter of consistency. A lot of guys are hungry, from what I see of the preparation and everything. I like that. It makes me go out there and work harder."

The Mets optioned infielder Ronny Mauricio to Triple-A Syracuse to make room for Pham on the roster. They'll need contributions from whoever is available while waiting for their star to get healthy.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.