Juan Soto’s ‘Kissing Girls’ Analogy on Mets Teammate Strain
New York Mets stars Juan Soto and Francisco Lindor have faced persistent rumors about a strained relationship since becoming teammates, a narrative that has shadowed the team’s underperformance. While both players and owner Steve Cohen have recently addressed the situation, Soto offered a rather colorful analogy to describe the evolution of their bond.
Addressing the Rumors
The New York Mets, burdened by expectations and significant financial investment, have struggled considerably this season, finding themselves among the league’s least successful teams. Lindor arrived in 2021, followed by Soto’s monumental signing in December 2023, a record-breaking 15-year, $765 million deal. Reports suggesting friction between the two high-profile players began circulating last year, their first season together, and continued into the current one.
Owner Steve Cohen, speaking to the New York Post, largely dismissed the ongoing speculation. “Frankly, I think that’s a story that was last year’s story,” Cohen stated. “I am told and believe strongly that these guys are getting along much better. And so, I just don’t see that as an issue anymore.”
Soto’s Unique Comparison
Following Cohen’s comments, both Soto and Lindor were directly asked about their relationship. Soto, when pressed by The Athletic about the perceived tension, used a surprising metaphor. “When you meet a girl, you don’t start kissing her right away,” he explained, suggesting that relationships, like any partnership, require time to develop naturally.
Despite the persistent rumors and observations, such as their lockers reportedly being moved to opposite ends of the clubhouse and a seemingly cool interaction on Opening Day, both players have publicly downplayed any significant issues. Soto himself stated there were “no issues” between them, adding, “The more time we spend together, it’s only natural that our relationship continues to grow.”
Lindor’s Perspective on Teammate Growth
Lindor echoed Soto’s sentiments, emphasizing the passage of time and mutual respect as key factors in their developing camaraderie. “We’ve been teammates for two years now. Time has been on our side,” Lindor told The Athletic. “I have nothing but respect for him. He’s my brother. He’s somebody I respected from a distance and respect here, inside.”
Reports had surfaced suggesting that the two stars had engaged in “hard conversations” recently. However, Lindor characterized these interactions as typical communication between teammates focused on their shared goal of winning. “It was just, we talked. We talk every single day, whether it’s hitting or different topics. But we definitely talk because at the end of the day, we are teammates and our job is to win games,” he clarified.
Looking Ahead
The dynamic between Soto and Lindor is crucial for the Mets’ aspirations, especially given their long-term contracts. Lindor is under contract through 2031, and Soto through 2039. Both players have experienced some time away from the field this season due to injuries, limiting their shared game time to just 15 appearances thus far. Nevertheless, their partnership is slated to be a cornerstone of the Mets’ lineup for years to come, with the hope that their on-field chemistry continues to build, much like the relationship Soto described.
