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Port St. Lucie Today
By the People, for the People
Mets Add Mike Tauchman to Outfield Competition on Minor-League Deal
Veteran outfielder joins crowded Mets roster battle for right field spot
Published on Feb. 17, 2026
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The New York Mets have signed veteran outfielder Mike Tauchman to a minor-league deal, adding him to the competition for the open right field spot on the team's roster. Tauchman, 35, spent last season with the Chicago White Sox and had a .756 OPS with 9 home runs over 93 games.
Why it matters
The Mets' outfield has seen significant changes this offseason, with star Juan Soto moving to left field and the team acquiring Luis Robert Jr. to play center. The right field spot is now up for grabs, and Tauchman's addition provides another experienced option for the Mets to consider alongside top prospect Carson Benge and other candidates like Brett Baty, Tyrone Taylor, and MJ Melendez.
The details
Tauchman, a left-handed batter, is coming off a 2022 season with the White Sox where he made 73 appearances in right field. His overall batting line of .756 OPS with 9 home runs in 93 games and 385 plate appearances was around league average, according to advanced fielding metrics like Outs Above Average and Arm Value.
- The Mets and Tauchman reached the minor-league deal agreement on Monday, February 16, 2026.
The players
Mike Tauchman
A 35-year-old veteran outfielder who spent last season with the Chicago White Sox.
Juan Soto
The Mets' star outfielder who moved to left field this offseason.
Luis Robert Jr.
An outfielder acquired by the Mets to play center field.
Carson Benge
A top Mets prospect who will get a shot at making the major league roster and competing for the right field job.
Brett Baty
Another Mets outfield candidate for the right field spot.
What’s next
The Mets will evaluate Tauchman's performance during spring training as they determine their final roster for the 2026 season.
The takeaway
The Mets are leaving no stone unturned in their search for the best outfield options, adding the veteran Tauchman to an already crowded competition for the right field job. This move highlights the team's commitment to building a well-rounded and competitive roster ahead of the new season.
