Juan Soto’s decision to sign with the New York Mets wasn’t all about the contract details or the appeal of a strong team lineup. However, it was influenced significantly by the family oriented atmosphere within the Mets organization that played a crucial role in his decision making process. Soto prioritized his close knit family’s well being and sought a supportive environment where they could feel at home while he played baseball in New York.

The Mets recognized the importance of family under Steven Cohen’s guidance and were prepared to deliver. Steve’s wife Alex Cohen played an important role in establishing a family oriented environment for the players. Improvements made to Citi Fields family amenities including areas where kids can have fun during games were a result of players feedback.

A New York welcome: how the Mets went the extra mile for Soto

It was Max Scherzer’s signing that set the stage for the Mets’ family-first approach. Scherzer, a seasoned veteran, emphasized the importance of upgrading family facilities at Citi Field—places where young children could enjoy themselves even when they weren’t paying full attention to the game. As Steven Cohen put it in a recent New York Mets YouTube video, “The team wanted to make it clear to (Juan Soto) him that family’s important to us.”

Cohen further explained when it came time to meet with Soto, Alex Cohen played a key role in making sure he felt welcomed and understood. Steven Cohen, reflecting on the meetings, mentioned flying his 93-year-old father-in-law across the country to be part of the conversation, alongside Alex and their son. For Juan Soto, meeting the entire Cohen family and seeing firsthand how much they valued family made a huge impact. It wasn’t just business; it was about creating a sense of belonging.

That personal touch along with the Mets continuous dedication in offering players and their loved ones top notch assistance was exactly what Soto needed to feel confident in his decision. Apart from breaking the bank by handing Soto a $765 million contract, Mets knew that they had to find a sweet spot in luring the five-time Silver Slugger Award winner.

Soto recognized that the Mets were not just providing him a playing field but also creating an environment where his family could share in his experiences and growth. Mets certainly went all in during the negotiation as they knew that La Fiera was in talks with Red Sox, Blue Jays, and Dodgers.

How Juan Soto’s presence will shape the Mets’ playoff push

Juan Soto’s debut in New York is a big plus for the Mets and their hopes of making it into the playoffs. Renowned for his ability at getting on base and hitting with power, Soto brings an offensive edge right into the heart of their lineup where it’s needed the most. The way he’s been performing over the past few seasons with an on-base percentage soaring above .400 has truly cemented his place as one of baseball’s hitters. He excels at extending at-bats and taking walks which not only enhances his batting performance but also safeguards the lineup for other hitters.

Moreover, in the NL East division with strong pitching staff rosters and Soto onboard, the Mets have an edge in generating scoring chances and making opposing pitchers sweat under pressure. Soto’s contribution goes beyond his hitting prowess; his extensive exposure in high stakes matchups proves vital for the Mets as they strive for playoff push. With multiple playoff appearances under his belt Soto grasps the gravity of October baseball and excels when it matters most.

With Soto in the heart of the order, the Mets now have the firepower to compete with the best in the National League. And of course they are looking at the bigger picture, which is to reclaim the lost glory of 1986.