Juan Soto got exactly what he was looking for with the New York Mets—the team’s first win of the year in a series against the Houston Astros. The series started with a tough loss in the opener, and in the second game, the Dominican star quickly realized just how hostile the home crowd could be.

After the game—where Soto also hit his first regular-season home run with the Mets—he made it clear what it meant to play at the Astros’ stadium, where fans will do whatever it takes to throw visiting teams off their game. He embraced the criticism, saying it only proved he was doing something right.

“I remember when I was a kid, they used to tell me, if they’re not booing you, you’re not doing things right. I feel like every time they’re booing me, it means something for me.” That was Soto’s response to the fans who tried to rattle him from the stands.

This won’t be the first time Soto faces this kind of reaction from MLB fans. It’s likely that some sort of response will also happen during his first game against his former team, the Yankees. It’s unclear if it will be similar to what he experienced with Astros fans.

HOUSTON, TEXAS – MARCH 28: Juan Soto #22, Tyrone Taylor and Brandon Nimmo #9 of the New York Mets celebrate after their team’s win over the Houston Astros at Daikin Park on March 28, 2025 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Maria Lysaker/Getty Images)

Soto Shines Against the Astros

The reasons behind the hostility from Astros fans toward Soto were likely varied, but it’s undeniable that he had a strong performance in the second game of the series in Houston. Not only did he finally hit his first home run with the Mets, but he also improved his batting average to .333 compared to .250 in the first game.

Soto was significantly more productive in this matchup, which didn’t go unnoticed by the home crowd. He struck out only once, showing that the Astros’ pitching couldn’t contain him. He also drew a walk. In total, Soto posted 1 run, 1 hit, and 1 RBI, contributing meaningfully to his team’s effort.