Mets get fresh Juan Soto injury update before Dodgers series

The New York Mets entered their series against the Los Angeles Dodgers with a five-game losing streak and the continued absence of star outfielder Juan Soto, who is dealing with a calf strain and not expected to return for another week or so. Soto has not yet begun a running program, and Mets reporters indicated he could require another MRI if his progress stalls, underscoring the team’s need for his bat and presence in the lineup.

Managerial and medical updates suggest Soto could be back within 2-3 weeks from his April 3 injury, per Carlos Mendoza, though there is caution around his timeline as he remains inactive. In the interim, the Mets have oscillated between lineup options, including calling up Tommy Pham to fill the void, while Soto’s status remains a central storyline for the club.

Offensively, the Mets have struggled during their skid, scoring only nine runs across five losses. Soto has been productive this season, hitting .355 with one home run, two doubles, and 11 hits in 31 at-bats, making his absence feel even more pronounced against a strong Dodgers rotation.

The Dodgers-Mets matchup carries added intrigue as the two teams prepared to face off in what some describe as the “most expensive series” in MLB history, given payrolls surpassing $800 million combined. The series opens with David Peterson facing Justin Wrobleski, a contest Mets fans hope helps steady a rotation that has seen Peterson post a 6.14 ERA over 14-plus innings this season.

Looking ahead, the Mets will rely on a combination of veterans and depth in Soto’s absence as they navigate a challenging road trip. If Soto progresses to running programs and avoids further MRI concerns, a mid-to-late April return could restore a key offensive element to a lineup striving to regain momentum.