Mets Struggle Extends Amid Injuries, Soto Claims Playoff Chances

Despite a severe slump marked by injuries and poor starting pitching, New York Mets superstar Juan Soto insists the team remains "100 percent" a playoff contender. The Mets have lost 16 of 21 games since late July, falling seven games behind the NL East leader Philadelphia and barely holding a half-game lead over Cincinnati for the final wild-card spot. Soto, who signed a record $765 million contract, has struggled offensively recently, batting .247 overall and going hitless in his last eight at-bats against the Washington Nationals, who just defeated the Mets 9-3 after New York blew a 3-0 lead. Key players, including catcher Francisco Alvarez, left fielder Brandon Nimmo, and second baseman Jeff McNeil, are battling injuries, forcing manager Carlos Mendoza to make difficult lineup adjustments. Soto emphasizes the need for improved team performance and staying focused on winning each game, acknowledging the urgency but urging calm as the season progresses. The Mets face mounting pressure to recover and secure their postseason hopes with just over five weeks remaining.