NY Mets News: Booing Juan Soto, Steve Cohen, bullpen arm set for Opening Day

The anticipation for Opening Day crackles in the air, a tangible energy as the New York Mets finalize their preparations for a season brimming with playoff aspirations and World Series dreams. The final notes of spring training have delivered a flurry of narratives, painting a vibrant picture of the team's current state.

From the charged atmosphere of Juan Soto's reunion with the Yankees, to the unexpected return of Steve Cohen's engaging and often sassy social media presence, the Mets have kept fans captivated.

Soto's spring training reception foreshadows Bronx battle

Juan José Soto faced a taste of Yankee animosity in his first spring training game against his former team, the New York Yankees. While the 8,000-strong crowd at Clover Park offered a mixed reception, Soto anticipates a far more hostile environment when he returns to the Bronx in May. "You know, Yankees fans, they can surprise you with anything, so I'm expecting the worst," he quipped.

The playful banter extended beyond the stands, with Yankees manager Aaron Boone jokingly remarking, "I told him he looks terrible in that uniform.” This early encounter sets the stage for a highly anticipated series, where Soto's transition from pinstripes to blue and orange will be under intense scrutiny.

Steve Cohen's sassy social media surge

Steve Cohen, known for his occasional but impactful social media presence, took to X (formerly Twitter) with a renewed vigor. Engaging with fans directly, Cohen displayed a mix of thoughtful responses and playful trolling. He addressed concerns about Clover Park's parking situation with a humorous retort and even entertained a fan's critique about the "reset year" with a contemplative reply.

The afternoon's interaction showcased a more accessible and candid side of the Mets' owner with a notably sassy demeanor. This surge in engagement has reignited fan interest, highlighting Cohen's ability to connect with the Mets faithful in a unique and entertaining way.

A.J. Minter's Opening Day readiness confirmed

Veteran left-handed reliever A.J. Minter has solidified his place in the Mets' Opening Day roster, demonstrating his readiness in the team's final spring training outing. Despite pitching on limited rest, Minter delivered a strong performance.

The 31-year-old, who spent eight years with the Braves, highlighted that his offseason focus was solely on being ready for Opening Day, providing much-needed veteran stability in the bullpen.