Unhappy Juan Soto Gets Candid on Cardinals Rookie’s Jaw-Dropping Home Run Robbery

Often, the crack of the bat echoing over a baseball park is a familiar sound, an indicator of possible offensive fireworks. The same was expected in the game between the New York Mets and the St. Louis Cardinals. But on this particular swing of Juan Soto, a sudden, unexpected gasp spread throughout Busch Stadium. Rather than the expected chorus of appreciation, there was only stillness. Why? Because of a stunning effort from the Cardinals’ rookie player.

Tension was rising with every pitch; the Queens and the Cardinals were tied 4-4 in the eighth inning. Star outfielder Soto came to the plate determined to end the tie. Known for his strong swing and sharp eye, Soto hit a pitch that drove the ball toward center field. The sound of the bat indicated a three-run homer, a game-changing explosion that would swing the balance in the Mets’ favour. But suddenly there was a shift in the game.

Recently promoted to the Cardinals, 24-year-old outfielder Victor Scott II entered the scene. Scott dashed to the wall, jumped, and reached his glove over the fence, grabbing the ball from the edge of a home run with a burst of speed and perfect timing. Scott’s landing, ball in glove, kept the tie and highlighted his defensive skill, sending the fans wild. Soto’s reaction? He was not happy!

Soto, obviously upset, later remarked: “I wouldn’t feel happy at all, but it’s part of the game. Just got to find a different hole next time.” Though his remarks acknowledged the erratic character of baseball, they also showed the pain of being denied a turning point.

Juan Soto was asked about the great defense played against him today:

“I wouldn’t feel happy at all, but it’s part of the game. Just got to find a different hole next time.” pic.twitter.com/cZaMu2Cu5a

— SNY (@SNYtv) May 5, 2025

Scott’s catch was a tribute to his athleticism and preparation for the major leagues, not just a highlight-reel event. Known for his speed and defensive abilities, he had already caused a stir in the minors by stealing 94 bases in one season. His move to the majors has been characterized by such bursts of brilliance, with this catch defining early in his MLB career. What’s his reaction? Oh, he definitely sounded happy.

“One, yeah that’s one. Easily one,” Scott said during the post-game press conference. “There’s no other feeling [to compare] than to that. That’s one of the best things in baseball, in my opinion, robbing a homer. That was really cool.”

For the Cardinals, this game was a win-win situation. In fact, the dramatic home run theft definitely influenced the outcome of the Mets-Cardinals game. However, Soto’s early Mets career has shown glimpses of the offensive firepower the team and fans expect, despite the setback in St. Louis.

Juan Soto’s Citi Field breakthrough

Though the star slugger was unbothered, Soto’s first two home runs at Citi Field as a Met were a notable turning point after many doubted his ability. Soto hit two opposite-field home runs on May 1, during a game against the Arizona Diamondbacks, his first at Citi Field since joining the Mets. Though he played well, the Mets lost 4–2.

When asked if his home runs reduced any pressure, Soto answered honestly. He said, “I don’t have any pressure at all,” when asked if these home runs relieved any pressure he could have been under. He thanked Mets manager Carlos Mendoza for his help, saying, “Mendoza has made it clear … he wants me to be comfortable, go out there and play.”

Even with the great expectations accompanying his record-breaking 15-year, $765 million contract, Soto’s calm attitude shows his confidence and experience. Soto showed the professionalism that has characterised his career by focusing on helping the team succeed overall, even as supporters cheered his home runs.

Ups and Downs are part of the game, and for Soto, it was just a bad day against the Cardinals. Building on his momentum, Soto faced a new challenge in St. Louis, but the breakthrough at Citi Field shows his resilience and dedication to the Mets’ success.

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