Carson Benge: Mets' New Right Fielder

0:00On March 25, the New York Mets have a new face and right field for opening day. Prospect Carson Benj, their number two guy, and the 16th best in all of baseball, according to MLB Pipeline, earned the starting spot against the body AT, pirates at Cityfield on Thursday. This came after the team traded Brandon Nemo to the Rangers in November and shifted Juan Soto to left field. Earlier this spring, Soto himself hinted at Benjay's potential, calling him a big-time talent. Benjay sees the chance with strong showings in Florida, tying for the team lead with 24 great fruit league games and topping the Mets with. 15 hits. He posted a solid 366 batting average over those at bats. Fans and scouts are buzzing about what Benjay brings to the lineup. The left-handed hitter showed sharp contact skills, hitting 91% of pitches in the zone, right behind veteran Boba Shet. His speed and versatility led him play all three outfield spots, and his arm strength topped out over 96 miles per hour on throws.

1:02That said, some early concerns linger from spring training. Benj had a low launch angle, sending most balls on the ground, though he flashed power with a top exit velocity of 110.8 miles per hour. In the minors last year, across high A, double A, and triple A, he slashed 281 over 385 over 472 with 15. Home runs. With stars like Soto, Besht, Francisco Lindor, and others ahead of him, Benjay can settle in lower in the order and grow into a 270. To 290 hitter, with 17 to 20 homers and possible 20 steals, if he lifts the ball more. His all-around tools make him a prospect to watch all season. You've been listening to New York Mets News today, AI Power Team Coverage.