Mets phenom Carson Benge to start in right field

New York Mets Possibility carson benz Manager Carlos Mendoza told reporters on Monday that he would be on the team’s Opening Day roster as the starting right fielder.

Benz, a first-round pick in 2024, entered spring training with a real shot at making the roster after impressing the organization in his first full professional season in 2025, batting .281 with 15 home runs, 22 steals and an .857 OPS in 116 games at three levels. The left-handed hitter then shined in the Grapefruit League with a .366 batting average and .874 OPS in 46 plate appearances.

“Happy over everything, I would say. Just knowing that I’ve worked hard for this. I’ve put in countless hours, and all of my family members and friends have sacrificed some time for me, and it’s all going to come true — my dream since I was little — is pretty cool,” Benz told reporters before the Mets broke camp in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

“It’s going to be surreal. I’ll try my best to take it. But, stay calm and play your game.”

Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns praised Benz throughout the offseason, indicating he would have an opportunity to make the team by spring training. The Mets, however, were not sure where the 23-year-old Benz would fit, leaving two starting outfield spots open during the winter after trading the left fielder. Brandon Nimmo.

The club attempted to sign a right fielder. kyle tuckerTop player on the free agent market, and made a competing offer, but he chose Los Angeles Dodgers. The Mets then turned their attention to acquiring a center fielder. louis robert jr. From chicago white sox and decided to move juan soto From right field to left field, creating opportunities for Benz, who has played all three outfield spots in the Minors, in right field.

Mets officials say it was a competition for the starting job between Benz, mike tauchman And MJ MelendezBut Benz appeared to have the inside track. This was further cemented when Melendez was optioned to Triple-A last week and Tauchman tore the meniscus of his left knee Over the weekend, the path was cleared for Benz.

“It’s a big day for the organization. A kid who will be drafted in 2024 and two years later, we’re breaking the news to him that he’s going to be playing in the big leagues for us,” Mendoza said. “He earned it. He had an amazing camp. We’re all excited to see this kid play.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.