Francisco Lindor expressed his perspective on the journey of player development during a recent interview, particularly focusing on teammate Juan Soto. Lindor emphasized the importance of viewing long-term contracts in the context of their entirety rather than being swayed by short-term performance. He believes that Soto has the potential to become one of the greatest players in Mets history over the next 15 years, regardless of his current statistics.
Currently, Soto is experiencing a season with a batting average of .243, along with eight home runs and 21 RBIs in 49 games. This performance contrasts sharply with his outstanding start during his first 49 games with the New York Yankees last season, where he posted a .316 average, 11 home runs, and 37 RBIs.
Reflecting on his own early struggles, Lindor shared insights on how he navigated challenging times. “I learned how to stay the course and live in the moment and not live so much with the exterior noises. And then rely on the people who were here to help me continue to get better,” he explained.
Lindor’s experience serves as encouraging advice for Soto, as it conveys the message that with persistent effort and the right support system, it’s possible to overcome early setbacks and flourish in a demanding environment like New York. This perspective not only reflects the resilience needed in professional sports but also establishes a hopeful outlook for Soto as he continues to adapt and grow in his role with the Mets.