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3w ago

Juan Soto Declares He’s ‘Coming’ for Shohei Ohtani’s NL MVP

Analysts say his best shot is overwhelming offensive volume backed by visible defensive gains and a winning Mets season to counter Ohtani’s two-way edge.

PORT ST. LUCIE, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 21: Juan Soto #22 of the New York Mets during the spring training game against the Miami Marlins at Clover Park on February 21, 2026 in Port St. Lucie, Florida.(Photo by Jasen Vinlove/Miami Marlins/Getty Images)
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Feb 21, 2026; Port St. Lucie, Florida, USA; New York Mets left fielder Juan Soto (22) hits against the Miami Marlins during the first inning at Clover Park. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Soto publicly set his target on the award and Ohtani, saying, “he better keep doing what he’s doing, because I’m coming,” as he enters his second season with the Mets.
  • Ohtani is the two-time reigning NL MVP after a 2025 season with 55 home runs and a 2.87 ERA in 14 starts, and he is expected to pitch a full season in 2026.
  • Soto finished third in 2025 MVP voting after hitting 43 homers with an NL‑leading 38 steals, leading the league in walks and OBP, and surging after late May to a 179 wRC+ with 35 homers and 31 steals.
  • MLB analysis outlines Soto’s path in 2026: avoid a slow start, sustain elite production, keep pressuring on the bases, improve in left field, and strengthen his case by leading the Mets in a division race.
  • Both stars are under NL contracts through 2033, and Soto noted an MVP would carry meaning for the Dominican Republic, which last celebrated a winner with Albert Pujols in 2009.