Mets' Juan Soto takes step forward in calf injury recovery

Soto was seen throwing and playing catch, signaling progress in his recovery timeline.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:33am

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An abstract expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, capturing the raw athletic energy and movement of a baseball player, with their face and uniform details dissolving into unrecognizable brushstrokes.As the Mets await the return of their star player Juan Soto, his progress in recovering from a calf injury provides a glimmer of hope for the team's offense to regain its explosive power.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. Soto was off to a strong start to the 2026 season, batting .355 with 1 home run and 5 RBIs in 8 games before the injury. The Mets are hopeful Soto could return for their next homestand starting on April 21 when they host the Minnesota Twins.

Why it matters

The Mets' offense has struggled without their star player Soto, who is considered 'irreplaceable' by teammate Francisco Lindor. Soto's return would provide a major boost to the Mets as they look to keep pace in the early part of the season.

The details

Soto was placed on the injured list with a calf injury, and the latest reports indicate his recovery is progressing well. He was seen on the field before Saturday's game throwing baseballs and playing catch, which is a positive sign. The initial timetable provided by the team suggested Soto could return for the start of the Mets' next homestand on April 21 when they host the Minnesota Twins.

  • Soto was placed on the injured list with a calf injury.
  • Soto was seen on the field before Saturday's game throwing and playing catch.
  • The Mets' next homestand begins on April 21 when they host the Minnesota Twins.

The players

Juan Soto

The Mets' star outfielder who is currently recovering from a calf injury.

Francisco Lindor

The Mets' shortstop who described Soto as 'irreplaceable' for the team.

David Stearns

The Mets' president of baseball operations, who expressed optimism that Soto's absence will not be long-term.

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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, Mets Shortstop

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

Soto's progress in his recovery is an encouraging sign for the Mets, who have struggled offensively without their star player. His potential return for the team's upcoming homestand could provide a much-needed boost as they look to keep pace in the early part of the season.