Juan Soto has only been with the San Diego Padres for a short time, but he is already making an indelible mark. He was beloved by the fanbase for his play on the field, and now his personality off the field is shining through. Considering the expectations surrounding the Padres in 2023, keeping a positive outlook could be crucial to their success.
Despite being only 24 years years old, Soto will be viewed as a leader on the Padres. He is one of the few players on the team who has a World Series championship to his name. Based on the success he has found in every other element of his career, he will likely take to the role well. He is certainly surrounded by an incredible amount of talent that he can lean on.
The San Diego Padres posted behind-the-scenes video of his photoshoot that many found endearing.
The Padres have built a championship-caliber roster seemingly out of nowhere, with no shortage of fan favorites. Between Juan Soto, Manny Machado, Fernando Tatis Jr. and the recently acquired Xander Bogaerts, they have an embarrassment of riches. It is easy for a fanbase to get excited for a season with stars like these.
Soto has yet to sign a long-term deal with the Padres, but the expectation is that the deal will come soon. The Padres would not have given as many assets as they gave to the Washington Nationals for a Juan Soto rental. He is certainly part of the team's long-term plans, potentially even as the centerpiece of those plans.
Having a team leader who is also beloved by fans is not as easy as some expect. Sometimes, the fans respond to players differently than their own teammates do. For Juan Soto, there is no doubt that he is being supported both inside and outside the organization.
The San Diego Padres have a bona fide superstar in Soto, and they know it.
Can Juan Soto lead the San Diego Padres to a World Series?
The Padres have all the pieces a championship team would look for going into a season. While their National League competition is incredibly tough, the Padres are among the best teams. The Los Angeles Dodgers, New York Mets and Atlanta Braves are sure to put up a tough fight.However, it is almost impossible to look at the San Diego roster and bet against them in any capacity.