High Honor: Juan Soto Receives Award from Juan Marichal in Pre-Game Ceremony
In a moment that intertwines personal achievement with national pride, Juan Soto has been honored with the 2024 Juan Marichal Award—An award presented to the best Dominican player in Major League Baseball.
Juan Soto received the Juan Marichal award, which recognizes the best Dominican player in Major League Baseball, ahead of today’s game.
Marichal also threw out the first pitch. pic.twitter.com/SWJhAB0fTH
— Metsmerized Online (@Metsmerized) February 27, 2025
The legendary Juan Marichal—a 10-time All-Star and Hall of Famer who recorded 243 wins, a 2.89 ERA, and 52 shutouts—the most of his era—presented the award during a pre-game ceremony at the New York Mets’ spring training facility in Port St. Lucie, Florida on Thursday.
Juan Marichal, varying Windups/Arm Slots (side by side) pic.twitter.com/w02uIdXBwF
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) November 19, 2018
Soto’s 2024 season with the Yankees was nothing short of spectacular. He posted a .288 batting average, launched a career-high 41 home runs, and amassed 109 RBIs. His exceptional plate discipline was evident with 129 walks, contributing to an impressive 7.9 WAR for the season.
February 27th, Dominican Republic Independence Day
The award’s presentation on February 27 carries profound significance, coinciding with the Dominican Republic’s Independence Day.
Marichal, the first Dominican player inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame, emphasized the importance of this date, stating, “Presenting this award to Juan on our nation’s Independence Day adds a special layer of pride for both of us.”
Reflecting on his journey, Soto expressed deep gratitude: “Receiving this honor from a legend like Juan Marichal, especially on such a meaningful day for our country, is a moment I’ll cherish forever.”
This accolade adds to a series of decorative honors for Soto. In 2024, he secured his fifth Silver Slugger Award, joining Mike Trout as the only player to achieve this feat by age 26.
Juan Soto has his fifth career Silver Slugger Award and first in the American League. pic.twitter.com/F5cwmaZDot
— MLB Network (@MLBNetwork) November 12, 2024
While known as one of the greatest pure hitters in baseball, his defensive improvements haven’t gone unnoticed, either. Soto was also named a finalist for the 2024 AL Gold Glove Award, showcasing his overall development as a player.
As baseball season inches closer to Opening Day, Soto’s recognition is a testament to his dedication on and off the field as a cornerstone of the New York Mets organization for the next 15 years.
