As the New York Mets continue preparing for the 2026 season, projections suggest their biggest star could be in line for an MVP-caliber campaign.
According to FanGraphs projections, Mets superstar Juan Soto is expected to deliver one of the most dominant offensive seasons in the National League, putting him firmly in the early MVP conversation.
High Expectations in Year Two
New York Mets left fielder Juan Soto | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
Soto joined the Mets before the 2025 season in one of the most significant moves in franchise history, signing a massive deal after leaving the New York Yankees.
At the time, the Mets were already coming off a National League Championship Series appearance, and adding Soto dramatically raised expectations.
However, despite Soto’s strong performance, the team collapsed in the second half of the season and ultimately missed the playoffs.
That disappointment prompted the front office to overhaul parts of the roster this offseason as they aim to return to contention in 2026.
Massive Numbers Expected
FanGraphs’ projections for Soto’s 2026 season suggest another outstanding year at the plate.
The model projects Soto to post:
- .272 batting average
- .411 on-base percentage
- .528 slugging percentage
- 38 home runs
- 102 RBIs
- 23 stolen bases
Those numbers would give him an OPS above .900 and a projected 6.1 WAR, the type of production typically associated with MVP contenders.
A Key Piece of the Mets’ Playoff Hopes
If Soto performs at that level, he could become the centerpiece of the Mets’ push back to the postseason.
The team addressed several weaknesses this offseason, including improving the pitching staff by adding a top starter. With those upgrades in place, the Mets are hoping a bounce-back year is within reach.
Looking for a Faster Start
Even with strong overall numbers in 2025, Soto took some time to find his rhythm early in the season.
Heading into 2026, the Mets hope he can get off to a faster start. His participation in the World Baseball Classic with the Dominican Republic could help him enter the season already in midseason form.
If Soto delivers the type of performance projected for him, the Mets could once again find themselves squarely in the National League playoff race — and their superstar could be chasing another MVP award. ⚾
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