Mets Rookie Benge Gets Chance with Soto Sidelined

Outfielder Carson Benge looks to prove himself as Juan Soto recovers from calf injury

Apr. 10, 2026 at 1:21am

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, breaking down a Mets baseball game into sharp, overlapping geometric planes, capturing the energy and action of the sport.A cubist interpretation of a pivotal moment in a Mets game, highlighting the team's young talent stepping up in the absence of a star player.NYC Today

The New York Mets will be without star outfielder Juan Soto for 2-3 weeks due to a right calf strain, opening the door for rookie Carson Benge to get more playing time and a chance to prove himself at the major league level.

Why it matters

Soto's injury is a significant blow to the Mets as they try to keep pace in the NL East, but it provides a valuable opportunity for the 23-year-old Benge to show he can be a productive part of the Mets' future plans.

The details

Benge, who hit 15 home runs in the minors last season, has struggled to start the year, going just 3-for-28 with the Mets. However, he performed well in spring training and the Mets are hopeful this extended playing time will allow him to find his rhythm at the plate and potentially emerge as a power threat.

  • Soto was placed on the injured list on April 6, 2026.
  • Soto is expected to miss 2-3 weeks with the calf strain.

The players

Juan Soto

Star outfielder for the New York Mets who was placed on the injured list with a right calf strain.

Carson Benge

23-year-old rookie outfielder for the New York Mets who will see increased playing time with Soto sidelined.

Tommy Pham

Veteran minor league signee for the New York Mets who is ramping up and could be ready by mid-April.

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What they’re saying

“Things haven't gone swimmingly for Benge, who snapped an 0-for-24 skid Wednesday with a ninth-inning single. But Soto's absence, combined with Benge's defensive skillset, may result in continued opportunities for the rookie.”

— Anthony DiComo, MLB.com reporter

What’s next

If Benge continues to struggle at the plate while Pham proves effective in the minors, it could prompt the Mets to make a change in the outfield.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of depth and the opportunity for young players to step up when star players are sidelined due to injury. Benge has a chance to prove his worth and potentially earn a more permanent role with the Mets.