New York Mets slugger Juan Soto wasted no time making an impact in their June 17, 2025 showdown at Atlanta, launching a no-doubt solo homer in the first inning. Facing Braves rookie Spencer Schwellenbach, Soto opened the game with a towering shot—his 14th of the season—giving the Mets an early 1–0 lead.
A statement swing
Soto began the at-bat with a bunt attempt to gauge the pitcher, then unleashed a 412-foot missile just two pitches later . That blast wasn’t just a power play—it extended his career OPS against Atlanta to an impressive 1.134, the highest of any player they’ve faced in the modern era (min. 175 PA).
Mets set the tone early
The momentum didn’t stop there. Francisco Lindor and Pete Alonso contributed early pressure, supported by solid defense including a slick 3–6 double play in the first inning . Tyrone Taylor added a two-run double in the second, extending New York’s lead to 3–0.
Braves claw back — but stumble
Atlanta hung around, with Matt Olson bringing in a run with an RBI single in the third inning . Marcell Ozuna belted a bases-clearing double in the eighth to tie the game at 4–4 . But in extra innings, Mets closer Edwin Díaz shut the door, only for the Braves’ Raisel Iglesias to rally and deliver the walk-off victory. Austin Riley’s sacrifice fly in the bottom of the 10th sealed a tough 5–4 loss for New York.
MVP Performance: Soto
Despite the loss, Soto’s first-inning heroics stood out. That solo homer energized the Mets and once again highlighted Soto’s dominance at the plate. Early in the season, his ability to “feel out” pitchers and then punish fastballs is among the best in baseball—and Atlanta was on the receiving end once more.
Looking ahead
The Mets will bounce back quickly, aiming to regroup after a tough extra-innings loss. Soto’s performance, though, is a clear reminder that they’re not waiting around: they’re swinging for the fences—literally.
Final Score: Braves 5, Mets 4 (10 innings)
Notable: Juan Soto 1 HR (14), career-best OPS vs. Braves (1.134); Mets bullpen held until extras; Braves walk it off in 10th.
