"From the time when Juan Soto was 19, you saw something different" - Ex-MLB star shares thoughts on $765,000,000 superstar's "generational" talent

The New York Mets made the biggest splash this offseason. Juan Soto, who was fresh off a career year and a World Series trip with the Yankees, was the most sought-after free agent this offseason. Steve Cohen's pockets turned out to be deep enough as they signed the outfielder for a blockbuster 15-year, $765 million, shattering many professional sports records.

Soto, 26, is in his prime and expected to do big things for the Mets, who had a deep postseason run before falling against the Dodgers in the NLCS.

Todd Zeile, who played 16 seasons in the majors, on Wedneday's episode of Amazin' Conversations with Jay Horwitz, discussed Soto's signing with the Mets and its impact on and off the field.

"People talk about generational talent, and, you know, you always find some other guys coming through the ranks that do amazing things," Zeile said (2:11 onwards). "But from the time he was 19 years old, you saw there was something different about Juan Soto. It feels like he's been around for 20 years. He's six-plus years in the league because he came in at 19. At that point, you're like, there's something different about him.

"He doesn't swing at balls out of the strike zone. When he makes contact, it's loud contact. He hits the ball to all fields, he likes the big moments, and he's got a little bit of flair at home plate."

Zeile backed up his point, saying how Soto helped the Washington Nationals to a World Series title in 2019 at such a young age.

"All of those things were magnified when you saw him in the postseason," Zeile added. "To do the things he was doing at such a young age for the Nationals and on the biggest stage, you're like, okay, this kid’s going to remain special."

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Todd Zeile shares two cents on Juan Soto's signing making Mets an attractive destination

There's a saying that talent attracts talent. With Juan Soto locked in for 15 years at the Queens, the Mets are expected to be competitive in the coming years, making them a attractive destination for free agents. Todd Zeiele has a similar thought.

“Guys are seeking out the Mets as a destination, and that's something that's, I think, evolved over the last number of years," Zeile said.

"The reality is that this team has an opportunity to have sustainable success, be in the best marketplace in the world, and have a home like Citi Field—a very family-friendly atmosphere for players—which has made it a desirable place to come.”

This shift in perception will position the Mets as serious contenders for top-tier talents like Juan Soto in the near future.