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Full Breakdown

Juan Soto placed on 10-day IL with left calf strain

7/26/2026, 2:10:11 AM

Core Event

New York Mets slugger Juan Soto was moved to the 10-day injured list on Saturday after being diagnosed with a Grade 2 strain in his left calf. The injury was aggravated while running to second base during a 4-2 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers. Soto had been playing through calf discomfort for about a week before the game.

Background & Context

Soto previously suffered a right-calf strain that sidelined him from April 4 to later in April, during which the Mets went 3-12, losing their final 12 games of that stretch. He returned on April 22, ending a 12-game losing streak. After the All-Star break, Soto exited the Mets’ first post-break game on July 16 against the Philadelphia Phillies and missed the following day before resuming limited duties as designated hitter.

Performance Impact & Data

Soto has been a bright spot in a struggling season. Sources differ on his current batting average: one reports .293 with 21 home runs in 84 games, while another lists .283 with the same power totals and an NL-best .947 OPS. He also has 52 RBIs. The Mets recalled infielder/outfielder Eric Wagaman from Triple-A Syracuse to fill the roster spot; Wagaman is hitting .162 with two homers in 21 major-league games.

Official Statements & Responses

Green added that the club will weigh Soto’s long-term value when planning his return, acknowledging the Mets’ diminished postseason prospects and the likelihood of roster moves before the trade deadline.

Verbatim Quotes

  • “It's a little more significant than last time,” — Andy Green, interim manager
  • “Someone like him wants to be on the baseball field,” — Andy Green, interim manager
  • “We are all cognizant of his long-term importance to us," Green said.” — Andy Green, interim manager