The New York Mets' offense has been searching for a spark during a difficult stretch, and a significant one may be on the horizon. While wrapping up their series in Los Angeles, the club received promising news regarding star outfielder Juan Soto's recovery from a right calf strain.

Soto has begun running this week, a critical milestone in his rehab. Manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed the target is for Soto to rejoin the lineup during the team's upcoming homestand, stating, "That's the goal... at some point in the next homestand."

His progression took a major step forward Wednesday, as he faced live pitching from High-A hurlers, a key test for any hitter returning from injury. The focus now shifts to ensuring his calf can handle the dynamic movements of the game—accelerating on the bases, changing direction in left field, and moving laterally without issue. The injury, sustained while running the bases on April 4, is considered minor, and a return next week would align perfectly with the initial 2-3 week recovery timeline.

For a Mets team mired in a seven-game losing streak where they've scored only 10 total runs and been shut out three times, Soto's bat cannot return soon enough. The lineup has struggled to generate rallies without his elite on-base presence, leading to pressing at-bats and expanded strike zones. His return promises to provide the consistent, high-level offensive threat this scuffling team desperately needs to reignite its season and start stacking wins.