Juan Soto’s MVP Hopes Rise After Strong First-Half Showing in 2025

MLB insider Anthony DiComo believes Juan Soto still has a shot at the National League MVP award after the slugger’s dominant first half in 2025.

What did the insider say?

On July 17, MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo told reporters Soto’s power numbers could push him into the MVP conversation. “I’m never going to say anything is out of the question,” DiComo said. “I didn’t think Juan Soto was going to steal 30 bases last year, either.”

DiComo argued Soto’s early-season absence-he missed the first two and a half weeks in April-cost him a spot in the early MVP race. “If he hadn’t missed those first two and a half weeks in April, we’d be talking with him, Shohei Ohtani and Pete Crow-Armstrong right there in the early MVP race,” DiComo added. “That’s going to be difficult for Soto, but again, I won’t count him out for that, either.”

How strong is Soto’s case?

Soto, now in his first season with the New York Mets, already has 43 home runs and 105 RBIs. He entered the All-Star break with 21 homers and 55 RBIs, putting a 40-homer, 100-RBI season within reach. His .950 OPS ranks among the league’s top 10, and his 43 blasts last year set a career high for the 26-year-old.

The Mets, meanwhile, are mired in a lost season. Their 40-52 record is the second-worst in the National League, eight games behind the Washington Nationals in the NL East. With the trade deadline looming on August 3, New York appears set to sell off pieces-except for Soto.

What’s next for Soto and the Mets?

Soto’s contract-15 years, $765 million-makes him the cornerstone of a franchise in flux. His career RBI mark of 110 came in 2019 with Washington, and he’s on pace to challenge that total in 2025. DiComo’s comments add fuel to the idea that Soto could salvage individual accolades even as his team struggles.

For Mets fans, Soto’s late-season surge offers a rare bright spot. The outfielder’s ability to keep pace with Ohtani and Crow-Armstrong in MVP talks-however unlikely-gives the club something to watch beyond the dugout fireworks.

Where does this leave the NL MVP race?

Soto’s early exit in April hurt his momentum, but his bat hasn’t cooled. DiComo’s take underscores a simple truth: MVP races aren’t just about team success. With 78 games played, Soto’s counting stats alone could keep his name in the conversation.

The Mets’ front office faces tough choices at the deadline, but Soto’s performance ensures he won’t be among the players moved. Instead, he’s the one driving the narrative-even if the wins aren’t following.