Is Carson Benge on an unstoppable trajectory to secure a spot on the Mets' Opening Day roster in 2026? The buzz surrounding this promising young player is palpable, with top decision-makers firmly believing he's on the fast track.
David Stearns, the Mets' president of baseball operations, has been remarkably consistent in his outlook on Carson Benge. He's made it clear that the organization's No. 2 prospect is slated to receive ample opportunities to prove his worth and earn a place on the Opening Day roster in 2026. "We've been consistent throughout the offseason that Carson is going to come to camp with a chance to make our team," Stearns stated from the team's spring training hub in Port St. Lucie, Florida. "That remains the same."
Interestingly, Benge's primary outfield position has seen a subtle shift. While he was initially eyed for left field, a strategic decision by Stearns and the acquisition of Juan Soto have led to a swap of corner outfield duties, positioning Benge more prominently in right field. This move isn't entirely new territory for him; Benge ascended rapidly through the Mets' minor league system last season, concluding his campaign with Triple-A Syracuse. He actually played 26 games in right field and spent the majority of his collegiate career at Oklahoma State honing his skills there. "He’s played a lot of right field during his time in the minor leagues," Stearns confirmed. "We’re confident with him out there."
But here's where it gets interesting: the competition for outfield spots isn't a foregone conclusion. Just as was the case when the focus was on the left-field opening, Brett Baty will also be given a chance to showcase his abilities in right field. Furthermore, Baty's versatility extends to first, second, and third base, making him a valuable utility option. Adding to the mix, Tyrone Taylor, who is designated as the primary defensive replacement for any outfield position off the bench, and the newly acquired MJ Melendez will also be in contention for playing time in right field, especially if Benge doesn't definitively claim the role.
Last year, Benge showcased his offensive prowess across 116 games with Single-A Brooklyn, Double-A Binghamton, and Triple-A Syracuse. He posted an impressive slash line of .281/.385/.472, driving in 73 RBIs with 15 home runs and swiping 22 stolen bases.
However, Stearns offers a pragmatic perspective on spring training evaluations. "I think evaluations in spring are always a bit fraught, and we know that," he admitted. "We want to see quality at-bats, we want to see him handle the outfield. It’s also going to depend on what some other guys do, right? It’s not all going to be dependent on how Carson looks. We’re not going to get too preoccupied with surface line results one way or another, and we’ll make the best decision that we can on Opening Day."
And this is the part most people miss: while Benge's talent is undeniable, his path to the Opening Day roster isn't solely in his hands. The performance of other players and the overall team needs will play a significant role.
What do you think? Is Carson Benge a lock for the Mets' Opening Day roster, or will the competition heat up? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
