Juan Soto said he "100%" expects to return to the Mets' lineup this season despite a Grade 2 left calf strain that landed him on the injured list for the second time this year. The outfielder aggravated the injury running the bases Friday against the Dodgers after playing through discomfort for a week.

Soto, 27, had been one of baseball's most durable players before 2026, missing just 52 games over seven full seasons. This year he's dealt with calf strains in both legs, including a right calf issue in April. He called the recurring injuries "weird" but praised the team's strength coaches and trainers.

The setback comes as the Mets, carrying MLB's second-highest payroll, own the third-worst record and face a 99.5% chance of missing the playoffs per FanGraphs. New York is expected to trade several veterans before Monday's deadline, including five impending free agents.

Despite the lost season, Soto remains a bright spot, batting .283 with 21 homers and a .947 OPS — third in the majors — in the second year of his record $765 million contract. Interim manager Andy Green said the team plans to activate Soto when ready, citing pride and obligation to fans.