Mets' Carson Benge and Clay Holmes Impress in Spring Training

Manager Carlos Mendoza discusses the progress of the young outfielder and veteran starting pitcher

Mar. 14, 2026 at 9:39pm

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In a meeting with the media before the Mets' spring training game against the Houston Astros, manager Carlos Mendoza spoke about several players, including outfielder Carson Benge and starting pitcher Clay Holmes. Mendoza praised Benge's even-keeled personality and strong performance in camp, which has him in the conversation for the starting right field job. Mendoza also expressed confidence in Holmes' ability to build on his successful first season as a full-time starter, noting the right-hander's improved understanding of the starting pitcher's routine and repertoire.

Why it matters

The Mets are looking to build on a strong 2025 season, and the continued development of young players like Benge and the maturation of veterans like Holmes will be crucial to their success. Benge's ability to handle a potential position change to center field and Holmes' ability to maintain his performance over a full season as a starter will be key storylines to watch as the Mets approach Opening Day.

The details

Benge, a 23-year-old outfielder, has impressed in spring training, batting .370 with a triple, five RBIs, four runs scored, and a stolen base in nine games. Mendoza praised Benge's even-keeled demeanor and said the moment won't be too big for him if he makes the Opening Day roster. Meanwhile, Holmes, who the Mets converted to a full-time starter last season, is looking to build on a solid 2025 campaign in which he went 12-8 with a 3.53 ERA. Mendoza believes Holmes is in a better place mentally and physically heading into his second year as a starter, with a better understanding of the routine and how to attack lineups multiple times through the order.

  • On Saturday night, the Mets traveled to West Palm Beach to take on the Houston Astros.
  • Mendoza spoke to the media before the Mets' spring training game against the Astros.

The players

Carlos Mendoza

The manager of the New York Mets.

Carson Benge

A 23-year-old outfielder in the Mets' organization who has impressed in spring training and is in the conversation for the starting right field job.

Clay Holmes

A right-handed starting pitcher for the Mets who is looking to build on a successful first season as a full-time starter in 2025.

Freddy Peralta

A pitcher who was added to the Mets' staff this offseason, bolstering their pitching depth.

Nolan McLean

A young pitcher who has emerged as a promising talent for the Mets, further strengthening their pitching staff.

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What they’re saying

“Second year after a full year as a starter, he's got a better understanding of what the routine looks like between outings, how he's going to pace himself in outings, pitch usage, how he's going to attack a lineup not only once or twice but three times through the order.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Manager (Yahoo Sports)

“Hopefully that's the case that we get to those last few days and we have to make some tough decisions because we got a lot of guys playing well and are healthy.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Manager (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

The Mets will continue to evaluate Benge and Holmes throughout the remainder of spring training as they finalize their Opening Day roster.

The takeaway

The Mets' pitching staff and outfield depth appear to be strengths heading into the 2026 season, with young talents like Benge and veteran arms like Holmes poised to play key roles. If Benge and Holmes can build on their strong spring performances, the Mets could be well-positioned to make a deep playoff run.