How are you assessing sharp/softness? Don't forget that the DoF scale on the lens is calculated for an 8x12" ~ish size print viewed at 10-12". If you look at the distance mark where shot two was actually focused (i.e. somewhere between 5' and infinity, you could calculate the anticipated DoF for that focusing distance using different CoC values using
DoFMaster on-line. The most extreme case would be to use pixel-size as the CoC if you're pixel-peeping unashamedly (i.e. viewing at 100%). DOFmaster typically uses the old values for FF cameras like the 5D (0.03mm), but the pixel pitch is ~0.008mm. ( For 0.03mm, DoF is ~4' to infinity, for 0.008mm it is 6.3' to 10.9 ft )
The more closely you look at the acquired image, the less DoF you actually have. This should help calibrate your expectations, but there may still be an issue with the lens
Andy