Mets' Juan Soto likely to start running in next couple days

Soto has been sidelined by a strained right calf since April 3

Apr. 14, 2026 at 1:25am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a baseball player in motion, with sharp, overlapping planes of color and form representing the dynamism of the sport.A cubist interpretation of a baseball player's explosive running motion captures the energy and intensity of the sport.Syracuse Today

New York Mets All-Star outfielder Juan Soto, who has been sidelined by a strained right calf since April 3, is expected to be able to start running in the next couple of days. Manager Carlos Mendoza said Soto is still anticipated to be out two to three weeks, and wasn't sure whether he would need a minor league rehab assignment before rejoining the team.

Why it matters

Soto's injury is a significant setback for the struggling Mets, who are currently in last place in the NL East. His return will be crucial for the team as they look to turn their season around and make a push for the playoffs.

The details

With Soto out, the Mets have brought up outfielder Tommy Pham, who is expected to mostly play against left-handed pitchers and come off the bench at other times. Pham signed a minor league contract with the Mets on March 27 and has been working out and watching the team while waiting for his opportunity.

  • Soto has been sidelined by a strained right calf since April 3.
  • Soto is expected to be able to start running in the next couple of days.

The players

Juan Soto

Mets All-Star outfielder who has been sidelined by a strained right calf since April 3.

Carlos Mendoza

Mets manager who said Soto is still anticipated to be out two to three weeks and wasn't sure if he would need a minor league rehab assignment before rejoining the team.

Tommy Pham

Outfielder who the Mets have brought up to fill in for Soto, expected to mostly play against left-handed pitchers and come off the bench at other times.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We just want to make sure he's fully healthy, especially when you're talking about a calf.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

“The newest 38-year-old prospect. A lot of smiles on faces today, so I'm happy I could provide some sunshine.”

— Tommy Pham

“Ultimately in New York, it's about winning. I see a lot of great things that we're doing, it's just a matter of consistency. A lot of guys are hungry, from what I see of the preparation and everything. I like that. It makes me go out there and work harder.”

— Tommy Pham

What’s next

The Mets will continue to monitor Soto's recovery and determine if he needs a minor league rehab assignment before rejoining the team. In the meantime, Pham will look to provide a spark off the bench as the Mets try to climb out of the NL East cellar.

The takeaway

Soto's injury is a significant blow to the struggling Mets, but the team is hopeful he can return in the next couple of weeks to help turn their season around. Pham's addition provides some depth and experience to the outfield as the Mets look to find more consistency and hunger to win.