New York Mets slugger Juan Soto had an embarrassing baserunning blunder that resulted in a double play by the Atlanta Braves during Tuesday night's MLB game at Truist Park.
It happened in the top of the ninth inning with nobody out after Soto hit a single to lead off the inning with the game tied at 4-4. On the first pitch of his at-bat, Mets batter Pete Alonso hit a fly ball to deep right field. Soto ran towards second base as Braves RF Ronald Acuña Jr. made a leaping catch against the outfield wall. Unfortunately, Soto lost track of where the ball was and apparently did not realize Acuña caught the ball. As a result, he was stuck flatfooted while Acuña threw the ball to Matt Olson at first base to complete the double play. Soto made a desparate attempt to make it back to first but was out by at least five steps.
Ronald Acuña Jr. makes a REMARKABLE double play! pic.twitter.com/ob48Ohfqyx
— MLB (@MLB) June 18, 2025
We have seen our share of MLB baserunning blunders, with some teams running the bases "like drunks". However, the Mets and their fans have the right to expect more from Soto, who will make $765 million over the course of his 15-year contract.
Soto had a decent night at the plate, going 2-for-3 with a walk and a solo home run. However, his baserunning mistake closed the door on a potential scoring opportunity, and the Braves would go on to beat the Mets 5-4 in the 10th inning, handing the Mets their fourth straight loss.
[@MLB]
Moonlighting as a blogger to pursue my interest and enjoyment of sports. Former high school and Division I athlete (now a "retired" family man) that loves watching and discussing all sports. Follow me on Twitter (@HoldoutSports) and like Holdout Sports on Facebook.
