Mets' Roster Shakeup: Tauchman, Kimbrel Out, Benge Shines

0:00It's March 22nd, from the locker room to your ears. This is New York Metz News Today. Powered by AI, I'm Cory with the story. The New York Metz are narrowing their opening day roster down to the wire, with two veterans now out of contention. Outfielder Mike Talkman will have surgery for a torn meniscus in his left knee after feeling discomfort during Saturday's exhibition game. After Craig Kembrole has also been informed he won't make the initial squad, Talkman 35 years old and signed on a minor league deal had been pushing for a starting or backup outfielder role. Manager Carlos Mendoza hasn't given a return timeline yet, meanwhile, 37-year-old Kembrole must choose whether to accept a minor league assignment and stay in the organization. These moves shake up the competition for key spots. Not prospect Carson Benj, just 23, has shown brightly this spring and looks strong for right field. The bullpen race comes down to left handers, Brian Hudson and Richard Love Lady vying for

1:03that final opening. Three players, Benj, Jarrett Young, and Vidal Bruhan, now battle for two roster places. Bruhan adds infield flexibility, including shortstop coverage, though Brett Beatty provides depth there too. Third baseman Boba Shett even brushed up on shortstop recently for extra insurance. Expect a full lineup to take shape once the team reaches New York, as these tight races head into the season opener.