Mets OF Juan Soto exits vs. Cubs with back tightness

Field Level Media|published: Tue 23rd June, 22:02 2026

Jun 20, 2026; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA; New York Mets outfielder Juan Soto (22) reacts after hitting a single against the Philadelphia Phillies in the third inning at Citizens Bank Park. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

New York Mets left fielder Juan Soto exited Tuesday's game against the visiting Chicago Cubs after the fourth inning due to left side back tightness.

Earlier in the game, Soto was seen in the dugout wearing what appeared to be a heating pad in the dugout and went 0-for-2 before departing. After he left, Jared Young moved from first base to left field and Mark Vientos entered at first base.

Soto is hitting .299 with 17 homers and 38 RBIs in 61 games this season. He missed 15 games with a strained right calf in April when the Mets dug themselves an early hole by losing 12 straight games.

Soto's departure happened while Francisco Lindor was playing his third minor league rehab game. Lindor hasn't played with the Mets since April 22 because of a strained right calf and could be activated later this week.

--Field Level Media

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