Juan Soto addresses Mets’ clubhouse issues, roster turnover, move to LF – The Athletic

PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. — The second year of Juan Soto’s marriage with the New York Mets is starting with significant change, and the superstar outfielder is on board with it. The clubhouse is different. Or at least that’s the expectation. After the Mets failed to make the playoffs in the first season of Soto’s 15-year, $765 million deal, multiple media outlets reported on New York’s clubhouse atmosphere. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza told the New York Post that while the clubhouse had a professional room, the vibe became “corporate.” When asked about his perception of the clubhouse last year, Soto said on Sunday, “That is in the past. We forget about it. We focus on 2026.” How could things improve in that area in 2026? Soto said, “Have fun. Forget about all the drama and everything. Focus on the game, and win some ballgames.” The contrast in styles between Soto and Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor also drew attention after the season. People within the team last year said Soto was more businesslike, with everything in service of performing in that night’s game, whereas Lindor carried a more laid-back, even friendlier, approach. When Soto was asked about Lindor on Sunday, he
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