Mets Outfielder Tauchman Exits with Injury Days Before Opening Day

Injury to Tauchman could open the door for top prospect Carson Benge to claim starting right field job.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 8:05pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

New York Mets outfielder Mike Tauchman exited a Grapefruit League game on Saturday with left knee soreness, just five days before the start of the MLB regular season. Tauchman was competing for a roster spot and the starting right field job, but the injury could now pave the way for top prospect Carson Benge to claim the starting role.

Why it matters

Tauchman's injury comes at a critical time for the Mets, with Opening Day right around the corner. The team was counting on Tauchman to provide veteran depth and experience in the outfield, but now they may have to turn to the 23-year-old Benge, who has impressed this spring but has limited major league experience.

The details

Tauchman was seen hobbling off the field after attempting to run out to his position in right field. The Mets are calling it left knee soreness for now, but the extent of the injury is unclear. Tauchman was slashing .241/.371/.448 with a .819 OPS, one home run and six RBIs in 13 spring training games, while Benge has been even more impressive, batting .368/.442/.447 with a .889 OPS and five RBIs in 13 Grapefruit League games.

  • Tauchman exited the Mets' Grapefruit League game on Saturday, March 21, 2026.
  • Opening Day for the 2026 MLB season is just five days away, on March 26, 2026.

The players

Mike Tauchman

A 35-year-old outfielder who signed a minor league deal with the Mets in February 2026, and was competing for a roster spot and the starting right field job.

Carson Benge

A 23-year-old top prospect in the Mets organization, who has outperformed Tauchman this spring training and is now the favorite to claim the starting right field job.

Carlos Mendoza

The manager of the New York Mets.

Vidal Brujan

A utility player competing for a bench spot on the Mets roster, who could now make the team as a true backup shortstop.

MJ Melendez

A newcomer to the Mets organization who could emerge as a backup outfielder and bench piece if the team decides against carrying Brujan.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.