Spring Training Update: Mets’ Carson Benge Shines Amid Injuries

WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The Mets showcased their confidence in Carson Benge again on Saturday. During his second spring training start in center field, he demonstrated his hitting power and solid defensive skills despite the team’s 8-2 defeat against the Astros at Palm Beach Ballpark.

Benge is vying for a spot on the opening day roster, and Coach Carlos Mendoza mentioned prior to the game that with many players in good health, tough decisions might lay ahead.

Benji is putting in the effort to make an impression.

“He stayed engaged, had good at-bats, played solid defense, and ran the bases well—it’s left against left,” Mendoza stated. “He knows he needs to perform for himself.”

The manager also noted Benge’s demeanor.

“He’s quite calm,” Mendoza observed. “He keeps his emotions in check, whether he’s up or down. This moment doesn’t seem too big for him, which is great. He shows up, puts in the work, and returns day after day. That’s something I really appreciate.”

The Mets’ pitching staff faced setbacks when Justin Hagenmann was placed on the 60-day injured list due to a broken rib.

Hagenmann was hurt during a Grapefruit League game on March 5, although Mendoza indicated the specific cause of the injury is unclear.

“After his last outing, he mentioned pain in that area,” Mendoza said. “It got progressively worse, prompting us to conduct imaging. Unfortunately, it revealed a fracture.”

This injury is significant, and while Mendoza isn’t certain about the timeframe for Hagenmann’s recovery, it’s clear he’ll be sidelined for a while.

Hagenmann, who is 29, appeared in nine games for the Mets last year, starting one.

Despite this setback, Mendoza remains optimistic about the team’s depth, with strong performances from players like Tobias Myers, alongside prospects Jonah Tong and Christian Scott in the minors. However, he acknowledged the loss of Hagenmann’s versatility will be felt.

“You can never have enough pitchers,” the manager remarked. “He can both start and pitch multiple innings in relief. His absence will be a challenge.”

In more positive news, Mendoza said shortstop Francisco Lindor participated in live batting practice for the second consecutive day as he recovers from left hamate bone surgery from last month.

Lindor’s recovery is on track for him to return by Opening Day, but President of Baseball Operations David Stearns indicated he may need to play in a Grapefruit League game first.

When asked if Lindor might take that step soon, Mendoza replied, “We’ll see.”

He added, “He continues to look good physically.”

Left-handed pitcher Richard Lovelady, who was intermittently with the Mets and Nationals in the offseason, returned to the Mets after being released from waivers on Saturday.

The 30-year-old previously played in 10 major league games last season with both the Mets and Blue Jays.