Beltran Excited by Mets' Athletic Roster for 2026

Former star outfielder sees team's new additions as game-changers

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Carlos Beltrán, the former Mets outfielder and current special assistant within the organization, is excited about the athleticism of the Mets' roster heading into the 2026 season. The team has added several new players, including Bo Bichette, Jorge Polanco, Marcus Semien, and Luis Robert Jr., along with top prospect Carson Benge, who are all known for their athletic abilities that can impact the game on defense, the basepaths, and at the plate.

Why it matters

Beltrán, a Hall of Famer known for his own five-tool skills, believes the Mets have become a more athletic team compared to last season, which could translate to improved performance on the field and more excitement for fans.

The details

Beltrán highlighted the new additions to the Mets' roster, including Bo Bichette, Jorge Polanco, Marcus Semien, Luis Robert Jr., and top prospect Carson Benge, as players who can "impact the game" with their athleticism on defense, the basepaths, and at the plate. The former Mets star outfielder feels the team has become more athletic compared to last season, which he sees as a positive development.

  • The Mets are currently in spring training in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

The players

Carlos Beltrán

A former Mets outfielder who is now a special assistant within the organization.

Bo Bichette

A new addition to the Mets' roster.

Jorge Polanco

A new addition to the Mets' roster.

Marcus Semien

A new addition to the Mets' roster.

Luis Robert Jr.

A new addition to the Mets' roster.

Carson Benge

A top Mets prospect competing for a job.

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What they’re saying

“I think right now we have a lot of athletes, which I do like. We have guys that can impact the game. Defensively they can impact the game, on the basepaths, and offensively we have guys that can make contact and that is something, comparing maybe last year's ballclub to this year's, I feel we have gotten more athletic.”

— Carlos Beltrán, Former Mets outfielder and current special assistant (The Post)

The takeaway

Beltrán's excitement over the Mets' more athletic roster suggests the team could be poised for an improved performance in the 2026 season, with the potential to be more dynamic on defense, the basepaths, and at the plate compared to the previous year.