Juan Soto’s calf strain has kept the All‑Star out since April 3, and Mets manager Carlos Mendoza says the outfielder should be able to start running within the next couple of days. Mendoza still projects a two‑to‑three‑week absence and is weighing a possible minor‑league rehab before Juan Soto re‑joins the big‑league squad. “We want him fully healthy,” the manager emphasized.

In Soto’s absence, the Mets promoted 38‑year‑old outfielder Tommy Pham for the series opener against the NL West‑leading Dodgers. Pham started in left field, batted seventh and faced left‑hander Justin Wrobleski. Mendoza plans to keep Pham in the lineup against left‑handed pitching while using him off the bench otherwise, banking on his veteran poise.

Pham, a free agent who signed a minor‑league deal on March 27, brought a “sunshine” attitude to the clubhouse, according to Mendoza. The veteran logged a .167 line (2‑for‑12) with a double, three walks and an RBI in six Class A games at St. Lucie before the Mets selected his contract and optioned infielder Ronny Mauricio to Triple‑A Syracuse.

Sitting at the bottom of the NL East after a 7‑9 start, New York hopes Pham’s arrival steadies a faltering offense while waiting for Soto’s return. The club’s recent emphasis on consistency and hunger reflects a broader push to climb out of cellar status. Pham’s debut gave the Mets a tangible boost as they chase a winning streak.