SouthernWorldwide.com – Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor, two prominent figures for the New York Mets, are reportedly not experiencing an immediate bond, a sentiment Soto recently elaborated on with an unexpected analogy.
The New York Mets, expected to be a formidable force in Major League Baseball, have instead found themselves among the league’s underperforming teams. This season has seen significant investment, with Lindor joining the Mets in 2021 and signing a substantial 10-year, $341 million extension, a move that signaled a new era under owner Steve Cohen. More recently, Soto joined the team on a record-setting 15-year, $765 million contract.
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Speculation about tension between Soto and Lindor has been circulating since their first year as teammates last season, with reports suggesting these issues have persisted into the current season. Some have speculated that Soto’s massive contract, which includes enhanced benefits and potential bonuses, might have contributed to a power struggle between the two stars.
While the narrative had begun to fade, recent comments from owner Steve Cohen seemed to confirm these reports, while also indicating an improvement in their relationship. Cohen stated to the New York Post, “Frankly, I think that’s a story that was last year’s story. I am told and believe strongly that these guys are getting along much better. And so, I just don’t see that as an issue anymore.”
These remarks prompted questions directed at both Soto and Lindor about their dynamic. During an interview with The Athletic, Soto offered a rather unique comparison to explain their developing relationship.
“When you meet a girl, you don’t start kissing her right away,” Soto stated.
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Despite his unusual analogy, Soto also asserted that there were “no issues” between himself and Lindor, directly contradicting ongoing rumors. Lindor echoed this sentiment, telling the outlet, “The more time we spend together, it’s only natural that our relationship continues to grow. We’ve been teammates for two years now. Time has been on our side. I have nothing but respect for him. He’s my brother. He’s somebody I respected from a distance and respect here, inside.”
Reports had previously emerged about Lindor and Soto having their lockers moved to opposite ends of the clubhouse this season. Furthermore, fans noted a perceived lack of warmth between the two players on Opening Day.
The Athletic had reported that the star players had recently engaged in “hard conversations,” a notion Lindor downplayed. He clarified, “It was just, we talked. We talk every single day, whether it’s hitting or different topics. But we definitely talk because at the end of the day, we are teammates and our job is to win games.”
Injuries have limited Lindor and Soto to playing only 15 games together this season. However, they are contracted to be teammates through the 2032 season.
