Mets Cut 4-Year Veteran Outfielder MJ Melendez

Melendez optioned to Triple-A as Mets trim spring training roster

Mar. 17, 2026 at 3:35pm

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The New York Mets have trimmed their spring training roster, including the decision to option four-year major league veteran outfielder MJ Melendez to Triple-A. Melendez, who signed a $1.5 million contract with the Mets in February, struggled at the plate last season with the Kansas City Royals and was non-tendered in November.

Why it matters

The Mets' outfield competition has been a key storyline this spring, with Melendez's demotion leaving just a few names in the hunt for the right field job to start the season. Top prospect Carson Benge is now in the spotlight as the Mets make their final roster decisions.

The details

Melendez was one of seven players the Mets cut from their spring training roster on Tuesday. The 27-year-old outfielder didn't do enough during the regular season last year to avoid having to prove himself in the minors again, even after signing a $1.5 million deal with the Mets in February. He batted just .083 in 60 major league at-bats with the Royals in 2022.

  • The Mets announced the roster cuts on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
  • Melendez was non-tendered by the Royals in November 2025 after struggling in Triple-A.

The players

MJ Melendez

A four-year major league veteran outfielder who signed a $1.5 million contract with the Mets in February 2026 but was optioned to Triple-A after a poor spring training performance.

Carson Benge

The Mets' top prospect, who is now in the spotlight to potentially earn playing time in right field to start the 2026 season.

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What’s next

All eyes will be on Benge, the consensus No. 1 prospect in the organization, for the next week or so until the Mets make their final cuts and prepare for opening day a week from Thursday.

The takeaway

The Mets' outfield competition remains fluid, with Melendez's demotion opening the door for top prospect Carson Benge to potentially earn a spot on the major league roster to start the season. This move highlights the Mets' continued efforts to build a competitive team after last year's disappointment.