Mets' Juan Soto Takes Step Forward in Calf Injury Recovery

Soto seen throwing and playing catch as he works to return from IL stint.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:25pm

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring bold brushstrokes and neon colors that capture the dynamic motion of a baseball player throwing a pitch on a baseball field.Soto's return to the field is a promising sign for the Mets as they await the star outfielder's recovery from a calf injury.NYC Today

New York Mets star outfielder Juan Soto was spotted on the field before Saturday's game against the Oakland Athletics, throwing baseballs and playing catch. This is seen as a positive sign in Soto's recovery from a calf injury that landed him on the injured list earlier this month. The Mets are hopeful Soto could return for the team's next homestand, which begins on April 21 against the Minnesota Twins.

Why it matters

Soto's production has been sorely missed by the Mets, who have struggled offensively in his absence. As teammate Francisco Lindor noted, Soto is 'irreplaceable' for the team and his return would provide a major boost to the lineup. The Mets will look to keep afloat until Soto is able to rejoin the team.

The details

Soto was placed on the injured list earlier this month with a calf injury. While the Mets have not provided a specific timeline, team president David Stearns expressed optimism that it would not be a long-term absence. Soto was batting .355 with one home run and five RBIs through the first eight games of the season before suffering the injury.

  • Soto was placed on the injured list earlier this month.
  • The Mets' next homestand begins on April 21 when they host the Minnesota Twins.

The players

Juan Soto

All-Star outfielder for the New York Mets who is currently recovering from a calf injury.

Francisco Lindor

All-Star shortstop for the New York Mets who has emphasized Soto's importance to the team's offense.

David Stearns

President of baseball operations for the New York Mets, who has expressed optimism about Soto's recovery timeline.

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What they’re saying

“Soto is irreplaceable, he's one of the best hitters in the game, but guys understand that we got to get it done. You know, this is real professionals, and we have to get it done. That's what it comes down to, you know?”

— Francisco Lindor, Shortstop

“The initial timetable provided by the team indicated Soto could be back for the start of the next homestand on April 21.”

— Tim Britton, Reporter

What’s next

The Mets will continue to monitor Soto's progress and hope to have him back in the lineup for the start of their next homestand on April 21 against the Minnesota Twins.

The takeaway

Soto's return will be a major boost for the Mets' offense, which has struggled in his absence. The team is optimistic he will be able to rejoin the lineup in the coming weeks as they look to keep pace in the NL East.