Juan Soto reveals the toughest pitchers he’s faced
It’s a challenge to envision Juan Soto, the New York Mets’ dynamic slugger, struggling against any pitcher in Major League Baseball. Soto, known for his exceptional hitting skills, seems almost immune to the pressures that come with facing elite pitchers. However, as any seasoned baseball fan knows, the sport is inherently fraught with failure, especially for hitters. The idea of Soto fearing a particular matchup feels almost surreal.
The Nightmare of Facing Elite Southpaws
Nonetheless, there exists a cadre of pitchers whose presence can instill fear in even the most accomplished hitters. Left-handed pitchers, in particular, can pose significant challenges for southpaw batters like Soto. One name that looms large in the annals of baseball history is Randy Johnson. Standing at an imposing 6’10”, the former Arizona Diamondbacks ace is often heralded as one of the most formidable pitchers of all time. Luckily for Soto, Johnson had long since retired by the time Soto stepped onto the diamond.
Yet, the legacy of intimidating southpaws continues, and a few have emerged who can match the daunting presence Johnson once had on the mound.
Soto’s Toughest Matchups
During a recent conversation with Ben Verlander, Soto candidly shared the names of the two toughest pitchers he has encountered in his career. “Chris Sale is right at the top,” Soto stated, highlighting the Boston Red Sox star’s reputation for overpowering hitters with precision.
Soto also mentioned Madison Bumgarner, recalling the unique challenges he presented. “He was something else. He was so funky, I wouldn’t pick up the ball. I faced him at the end of his career; I can’t imagine when he was throwing 98 miles per hour,” Soto reflected.
A New Perspective on Pitching Challenges
Soto’s insights not only shed light on his own experiences facing elite pitchers but also emphasize the unpredictable nature of the game. While hitters like Soto can dominate at the plate, the challenge of facing a select few pitchers can turn even the most confident player into a hesitant batter.
As Soto continues to navigate his career, it’s clear that the memories of facing such formidable opponents will resonate with him long after he steps away from the game.
