Mets Announce Carson Benge as Starting Right Fielder

On Monday, the Mets named Carson Benge as their starting right fielder, but there’s more to the story than just the announcement.

The following day, the team shared a behind-the-scenes video of Benge discovering his new role. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza brought Benge into his office to deliver the exciting news.

Mendoza started off with a compliment. “You carry yourself like a big leaguer. You play like a hell of a big leaguer,” he stated to the rookie. He then asked, “When you were at Citi Field taking batting practice, what was going through your mind?”

“Oh my god, I want to be here,” Benji responded enthusiastically.

“Well, guess what? You’ll have that chance on Thursday,” said Mendoza. “You’ve made the team. You’ll be in the lineup and playing right field for the New York Mets.”

This decision followed an impressive spring training for Benge, where he hit .366 with an .874 OPS across 14 games. His opportunity increased further when outfielder Mike Tauchman faced a torn meniscus in his left knee.

In addition to that, the Mets had traded Brandon Nimmo to the Rangers over the offseason. Their current outfielders include Juan Soto, Tyron Taylor, and Luis Robert Jr., along with potentially Brett Batty.

Benge expressed his joy over this turn of events, saying, “I’m really happy that things went in the right direction. I think I showed everyone who I am, and that feels good.” He added, “I can say I’m happy with everything.”

Last season, Benge split his playing time between High-A Brooklyn, Double-A Binghamton, and Triple-A Syracuse. He managed to bat over .300 with an on-base percentage exceeding .400 in both High-A and Double-A, though he faced challenges at Syracuse, struggling in just 24 games.

Mendoza suggested that Benge would mainly play in right field, although Robert might rotate to center field if needed. However, Benge’s first appearance in the majors won’t be simple; he’ll be up against Paul Skeens and the Pirates on opening day.