Juan Soto hit a two-run homer into the right field fountains, leading the New York Mets past the Kansas City Royals 3-1.

Frankie Montas, in his fourth start back from injury, threw five innings of one-run ball, Juan Soto hit a two-run homer, Tyrone Taylor made two game-changing catches in center, Reed Garrett pitched a gritty inning in relief, Luis Torrens threw out a pivotal baserunner in the eighth, and Edwin Diaz emptied the tank to earn a six-out save.

Whatever you believe about the 26-year-old who signed the largest contract the sport has ever seen in December, this much is true: The Mets are a better team with Soto.

The KC bullpen held its own. The Mets (55-41) scored three runs - including a Juan Soto two-run homer - and registered six hits. If there was any day to generate offense, the Royals needed it Saturday at Kauffman Stadium.

During Saturday's contest against the Mets, Bobby Witt Jr showed off his range, throwing out Brett Baty in the third.

Bobby Witt Jr. lifts a two-run shot as the Royals go up on the Mets 3-1. ESPN BET Sportsbook is owned and operated by PENN Entertainment, Inc. and its subsidiaries ('PENN'). ESPN BET is available in states where PENN is licensed to offer sports wagering.