Mets' Benge Hits First Career HR on Opening Day

0:00On March 26, the New York Mets kicked off their 20-26 Major League Baseball season with a strong win on opening day against the Pittsburgh Pirates. They faced tough pitching from Paul Schienes, one of the best in the game, but chased him out early after just two outs. The Mets put up five runs in the first inning thanks to their star hitters, building a solid lead. As the game went into the bottom of the sixth with New York ahead 9-5, rookie outfielder Carson Bench stepped up. He smashed his first career home run, a solo shot-off reliever Justin Lawrence. Right after, catcher Francisco Alvarez went deep two, giving the Mets back-to-back homers on opening day. Benjay, a 23-year-old from Oklahoma City, earned his spot in right field after the Mets traded Brandon Nemo in the offseason. A first-round pick in 2024, he impressed in the minors last year with a 281 average, 15 runs, 22 stolen, bases, and an A-57 on base, plus slugging in 116 games.

1:03Manager Carlos Mendoza chose Benjay to start, showing trust in the highly touted prospect amid a stacked lineup. His performance added excitement as he finished one for three with two runs scored and a walk. The Mets offense looks ready to roll this season, especially with young talents like Benjay stepping up big right away. They locked in with New York Mets News today, AI-powered updates.