Juan Soto's superhero mode has been activated -- and just in time for Rivalry Weekend.
The Mets slugger is the latest MLB star to power up to superhero status as part of "Heroes of the Game," a collaboration between MLB and the top creators in the anime world that uses videos and social imagery to imagine stars such as Soto, Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, Paul Skenes and others as larger-than-life heroes with otherworldly skills.
Phillies superstar Bryce Harper, speedy Royals shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. and Mariners star outfielder Julio Rodríguez are some of the other recent additions to the anime-inspired superhero crew.
"He sees it, all of it. And some might feel the pressure," the dramatic voiceover says. "But Soto doesn't crack."
The "Heroes of the Game" campaign launched just before Opening Day across MLB's various media platforms, with plans to grow the roster throughout the season in response to big moments. Soto's turn in the spotlight comes as he returns to Yankee Stadium for the first time since leaving the Bronx Bombers to join the crosstown rival Mets in free agency. It also means a clash with Judge, a fellow "Heroes of the Game" immortal.
It all adds extra intrigue to this Rivalry Weekend series -- making it the kind of setting in which superheroes tend to thrive.