Atlanta Prospects Shine in Futures Game
Jonaton is definitely making a name for himself with his strikeouts, while Carson Benge tends to be more reserved at the plate.
So what happens when a modest pitcher faces a hitter with an aggressive approach? The Mets gained some insights during spring training based on their experiences.
“I got a hit and sent it out,” Benge chuckled on Saturday.
Fast forward a few months, and both players showcased their talents in the Futures Game at Truist Park, giving the Mets a glimpse of their promising future.
In a 4-2 victory for the National League, Jonaton had a flawless second inning, hitting speeds of up to 97.4 mph.
His fastball had great movement, and his signature curveball earned him one strikeout.
The Mets are particularly proud of Jonaton’s development, having selected him from Canada in the seventh round of the 2022 draft.
Benge, a left-handed slugger, is proving the Mets’ scouting department right with his performance since joining from Oklahoma last year.
These two players, each taking different paths, might soon be called up to the major leagues.
It’s a pleasant surprise for Jonaton to contribute this season, especially given the strong competition from players like Brandon Sprout and Nolan McLean. Yet, the Mets’ farm system seems to be as robust as it’s been in recent years.
“I have to believe we have the best player development in all of baseball,” Jonaton expressed, based on his firsthand experiences.
He’s undoubtedly a fascinating prospect with a unique story. Hailing from Markham, Ontario, he spent a year at Georgia Premier Academy before the Mets decided to pick him, spending $226,000 to lure him away from a commitment to North Dakota.
This season, Jonaton has enjoyed one of the strongest performances among minor leaguers, finishing with Binghamton and boasting an impressive 160 strikeouts over 113 innings.
At just 22, he’s achieved a 1.83 ERA with 125 strikeouts in 78 innings at Binghamton.
Jonaton attributes his success to conversations with Rumble Pony pitching coach Daniel McKinney, as well as his distinctive delivery, something inspired by watching various pitchers on YouTube with his dad when he was younger.
“Seeing how aggressive he was on the mound influenced me quite a bit,” Jonaton reflected. “It ultimately shaped who I have become.”
His four-seam fastball, known for its deception, has made it challenging for hitters in the minors to make solid contact.
There’s also a changeup he refined following a discussion with Eric Jagers during the offseason.
Jonaton brought his new grip back home to Canada, where his first and most reliable catcher, Alexton, got a taste of it.
“My dad was quite surprised at the change,” Jonaton remarked.
Benge, who is also progressing through the Mets’ system, admitted, “Facing him isn’t exactly a walk in the park.”
The Oklahoma State pitchers and hitters are surrounded by Mets, leaving little room for weakness.
Benge dominated in 60 games (.897 OPS and 15 steals) at High-A Brooklyn. Now, moving up to Binghamton, he seems undeterred by the advanced level of pitching.
Benge, who showcased his batting skills in college, is now focused on drawing more walks as a professional.
While his approach may be somewhat unconventional, he’s sporting an impressive .422 on-base percentage, with 52 walks and only 58 strikeouts.
“I always aim to keep walks and strikeouts close together,” Benge noted. “I think that’s a solid formula for success.”
