Mets Outfielder Exits Spring Training Game with Knee Injury

Injury comes just days before Opening Day for New York

Mar. 21, 2026 at 7:27pm

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New York Mets outfielder Mike Tauchman was forced to leave a spring training game against the Washington Nationals on Saturday due to soreness in his left knee. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said trainers are examining Tauchman, but the team does not have many details about the injury at this time.

Why it matters

Tauchman's injury is concerning for the Mets as they approach the start of the regular season. The 35-year-old outfielder was expected to be a key part of the team's lineup, and any extended absence could be a significant blow to the Mets' plans.

The details

During an in-game interview, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza revealed that Tauchman cited soreness in his left knee and had to leave the game. Trainers are currently examining Tauchman to determine the extent of the injury.

  • The incident occurred during a spring training game between the Mets and Nationals on March 21, 2026.

The players

Mike Tauchman

A 35-year-old outfielder for the New York Mets.

Carlos Mendoza

The manager of the New York Mets.

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What they’re saying

“Yeah, I don't have much as of right now. [Tauchman] came in and complained about the left knee. There's some soreness there. So, trainers are going to take a look at him right now and see what we're dealing with.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Manager

What’s next

The Mets will provide more information on Tauchman's injury status in the coming days as they evaluate the extent of the issue and determine if he will be available for the start of the regular season.

The takeaway

Tauchman's injury is a concerning development for the Mets as they prepare for the start of the 2026 season. The team will need to closely monitor his recovery and determine if he will be ready to contribute in the team's lineup when Opening Day arrives.