Mets' Tauchman out with meniscus tear, Benge to start in RF

Injury opens door for top prospect Carson Benge to make Mets' roster

Mar. 22, 2026 at 3:24pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Mets outfielder Mike Tauchman suffered a torn meniscus in his left knee, requiring surgery and ending his chances of making the team's Opening Day roster. The injury clears the way for top prospect Carson Benge to claim the starting right field job.

Why it matters

Tauchman's injury is a setback for the Mets, who had hoped he would provide outfield depth. However, it opens an opportunity for Benge, the organization's No. 2 prospect, to break camp with the big-league club and potentially establish himself as an everyday player.

The details

Tauchman, 35, was competing with Benge and Vidal Bruján for the final two roster spots. He suffered the injury on Saturday, with an MRI revealing the torn meniscus. This will be Tauchman's second knee surgery in six months, as he previously tore the meniscus in his right knee last September. With Tauchman out, Benge is now the favorite to claim the starting right field job, while Bruján is likely to earn a bench spot.

  • On Saturday, Tauchman began experiencing discomfort in his left knee while playing against the Astros.
  • An MRI on Saturday afternoon revealed the torn meniscus.
  • Tauchman will undergo surgery, ending his chances of making the Mets' Opening Day roster.

The players

Mike Tauchman

A 35-year-old outfielder who was competing for a roster spot with the Mets.

Carson Benge

The Mets' No. 2 prospect, who is now the favorite to claim the starting right field job.

Vidal Bruján

An outfielder also competing for a roster spot with the Mets.

Carlos Mendoza

The Mets' manager, who announced Tauchman's injury.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Throughout Spring Training, Mets officials have been reluctant to handicap roster competitions, noting frequently that unexpected factors can change things in a hurry.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

What’s next

The Mets still plan to scour the waiver wire this week to see if additional outfield help emerges, but Benge is now the obvious choice to start in right field on Opening Day.

The takeaway

Tauchman's injury is a setback for the Mets, but it opens the door for top prospect Carson Benge to make the team and potentially establish himself as an everyday player. The Mets will now have to rely on their internal options to fill the void in the outfield.