A Surprising Verdict from the All-Star Media Circuit
During the recent All-Star media day, veteran outfielder Cody Bellinger sparked conversation by declaring Juan Soto the best batter in baseball, citing the Mets slugger’s unmatched consistency and skill set.
Soto, a 27‑year‑old outfielder who signed a 15‑year, $765 million contract with New York last offseason, has already amassed five All‑Star selections and six Silver Slugger awards, underscoring a career that many analysts expect to culminate in a Hall of Fame induction.
The praise arrived at a time when the Yankees are grappling with injuries, notably Aaron Judge, who is currently sidelined with a stress fracture in his rib cage. Judge, who has appeared in 59 games this season and posted a .248/.375/.533 slash line with 17 home runs and 38 RBI, has been a cornerstone for New York, making Bellinger’s endorsement all the more notable.
Some Yankees supporters reacted skeptically, questioning Bellinger’s loyalty to his injured teammate, yet the broader baseball community has largely embraced the sentiment, recognizing Soto’s elite performance despite the Mets’ middling standing in the National League East.
Soto is hitting .290 with 21 home runs and 51 RBI this year, numbers that reinforce his reputation as one of the game’s most reliable hitters and keep him firmly on the path toward a future Hall of Fame enshrinement.