Carson Benge Shines Despite Limited Opportunities
Carson Benge has managed to raise his profile even though he hasn’t had many chances at the plate within the Mets lineup.
In a recent match against the Athletics, with the Mets behind by a single run, Benge made a remarkable diving catch in shallow center field, preventing Denzel Clark from scoring two runs and ending the top of the fourth inning.
After the 1-0 defeat, he remarked, “It felt great to have our pitcher back.” Sure, there were some challenges, but they’re all part of the experience, right? That’s how we grow.”
The Mets are hopeful that Benge’s current challenges both offensively and defensively are just steps in his development.
On Sunday, he went hitless as the Mets were swept by the Athletics at Citi Field, marking their fifth consecutive loss.
So far, Benge has accumulated 3 hits in 34 at-bats, with 9 strikeouts and 4 walks.
With Juan Soto on the injured list due to a calf strain and Luis Robert Jr. still on a limited playing schedule, Benge continues to see playing time.
There’s been a noticeable pattern of underperformance among some hitters around him.
“I feel like I’ve had some solid at-bats, especially during the homestand, and honestly, I think it’s just a matter of time before everything clicks for all of us,” Benge said.
He insists that he won’t buckle under the pressures of Major League pitching and slumps, despite only appearing in 131 games at the minor league level, starting with High-A Brooklyn and finishing 24 games with Triple-A Syracuse before securing his spot in spring training.
“Even when things don’t go according to plan, it’s important to stay focused on the process,” Benge explained. “What makes me effective, I’m working on those key aspects, and it’s really about the player being a bit better. The game stays the same; outside factors shouldn’t sway your mindset.”
When he has the chance, Benge aims to contribute defensively as well.
Manager Carlos Mendoza described the catch with two outs and runners on second and third in the fourth inning as “pretty unbelievable.”
“It was a fantastic play by him. I was almost certain that ball was going to hit the ground,” Freddy Peralta commented. “He was well-prepared and made an impressive catch.”
Mendoza added, “He demonstrated great timing. It seemed like the ball was going to drop, but the way he went for it and dived was truly impressive.”
