Juan Soto Makes Mets Debut with Grand Slam in 9-4 Spring Training Win Over Cardinals

Juan Soto announced his arrival to New York Mets fans in the most emphatic way possible on Monday afternoon, launching a grand slam in his first at-bat wearing orange and blue as the Mets defeated the St. Louis Cardinals 9-4 in Grapefruit League action at Clover Park in Port St. Lucie.

The 27-year-old superstar, who signed a record-breaking 15-year, 65 million contract with the Mets in December, took Cardinals starter Miles Mikolas deep on a 2-1 fastball in the first inning, sending the sellout crowd of 7,500 into a frenzy. The grand slam traveled an estimated 438 feet over the left-center field wall, providing a tantalizing glimpse of what Mets fans can expect from their franchise-altering acquisition.

"I couldn't have scripted it any better," Soto said after the game through a translator. "To get that first hit out of the way, and for it to be a grand slam in front of all these incredible fans, it's a moment I'll never forget. I'm excited to be here and ready to help this team win championships."

Soto went 2-for-3 in his debut, adding a double in the fourth inning before being removed for a pinch runner as manager Carlos Mendoza managed his innings carefully. The Dominican Republic native looked comfortable in right field and showed no signs of rust despite missing most of the offseason program while contract negotiations were finalized.

Francisco Lindor contributed two hits and two RBIs batting ahead of Soto in the lineup, while Pete Alonso added a solo home run in the sixth inning. The offensive explosion showcased the kind of production the Mets hope to generate with their revamped lineup that now features three former MVP-caliber players in the heart of the order.

The performance provided early validation for the Mets' aggressive pursuit of Soto, who chose New York over offers from the Yankees, Dodgers, and several other suitors. With just five weeks remaining before Opening Day, Soto's immediate comfort level and production bode well for a Mets organization that hasn't won a World Series since 1986 but appears ready to make a serious championship push with their new cornerstone player leading the charge.