Rookie Carson Benge Earns Mets Opening Day Spot

0:00It's March 23rd. Welcome in. This is New York Met's News Today, where your team meets AI. I'm Cory with the story. The New York Met have a new face on their opening day roster in right field. 23-year-old rookie Carson Benj earned his spot after impressing in spring training. Drafted 19th overall in 2024 out of Oklahoma State, he had just 24 games of AAA experience coming in. Met's manager Carlos Mendoza announced it Monday after an intra squad scrimmage in Port St. Lucie, Florida. Benga had safely 15 times in 41 at bats during 14 grapefruit league games, batting 0.366 with two extra base hits, five runs batted in and five runs scored. He showed a strong two-strike approach, athleticism and a powerful arm in the outfield. That performance helped clear the way, especially after competitor Mike Talkman tore his meniscus last Saturday and another outfielder got sent to. The minors? Fans and teammates are buzzing about this rapid rise for the number 16 prospect in baseball.

1:02Benj, a left-handed hitter, ditched pitching after the draft and tore through the minors last year. He posted an 8.97 on-base plus slugging in high A, then dominated AA with a 317 average, eight home runs, and 23 runs batted in over 32 games. Mendoza praised the scouting and development team for spotting Benga's potential so early. From draft day to the majors in under two years, it's a testament to his hard work and the organization's faith. Expect big things from Benj as the Mets kick off the season with fresh talent ready to contribute right away.