Davey Martinez didn’t have any criticism for Juan Soto after the 23-year-old slugger popped out, chasing a 1-2 cutter from Mark Melancon out of the zone to end Thursday’s series finale with the Arizona Diamondbacks, leaving the bases loaded in a 4-3 loss.
Martinez, who told reporters he’ll take his chances with Soto at the plate with a chance to win one, was asked after the loss what message he’d have for Soto when he talked to him about his approach in that final at-bat.
“Pat him on the back,” Martinez said, “and I’ll tell him the same thing I told you guys, ‘I can’t wait till you’re up with bases loaded again, and again, and again, more times than not he’ll come through.