Padres Lefty Slugger Named Team MVP a Third into the Season

Juan Soto's second season in San Diego is off to a hot start.

In a contract season, Soto is earning his money at the plate. Slashing an elite .333/.482/.632 line in the month of May, The Athletic named the 24-year-old as the Padres' Most Valuable Player thus far into the 2023 campaign.

While the team as a whole has struggled offensively, Soto has been a stabilizing force amidst a team-wide slump.

The former Washington National leads San Diego in hits, RBI, walks and OBP. His 10 home runs are just one behind Fernando Tatis Jr., who leads the team.

Most recently, the young star posted a monster stat line in the Padres' 10-3 win over the Seattle Mariners Wednesday. 

Juan Soto today:

5 for 5, 1 2B, 4 RBI pic.twitter.com/wVEX5di9Rp

— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) June 7, 2023

Juan Soto today: 5 for 5, 1 2B, 4 RBI

(Via @MLBONFOX)

As the slugger continues his impressive 2023 performance, the Padres climb for a winning record. San Diego currently sits at 29-33, placing them fourth in the National League West.

"It feels pretty nice, it feels amazing, I couldn't believe it...most impressive is just the win we get today."
-Juan Soto on his 5-for-5 day and the #padres victory pic.twitter.com/kucEdTTk5Z

— Allison Edmonds (@aedmondstv) June 8, 2023

"It feels pretty nice, it feels amazing, I couldn't believe it...most impressive is just the win we get today." -Juan Soto on his 5-for-5 day and the #padres victory.

(Via @aedmondstv)

Currently on a one-year, $23 million contract, Soto is set to become a free agent in the fall of 2024. As Soto continues to prove his place among the best hitters in the major leagues, he will likely sign an eye-popping multi-year contract come free agency. Assuming the Padres want to keep the lefty slugger, there will be an intense competition for Soto's signature. With agent Scott Boras one of the toughest in baseball, Soto could demand quite a contract.

For now, the Friars can rest easy knowing they have one of the best young stars in baseball wearing their colors. Soto is currently among the favorites to win the NL MVP with +2500 odds.