Mets Outfielder Tauchman Out After Knee Surgery

Injury occurred during spring training collision with outfield fence

Mar. 22, 2026 at 3:34pm

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New York Mets outfielder Mike Tauchman has suffered a meniscus tear in his knee during spring training and will require surgery, the team announced on Sunday. Tauchman exited the Mets' exhibition game against the Houston Astros after colliding with the outfield fence earlier in the contest.

Why it matters

Tauchman was competing for a spot on the Mets' Opening Day roster, and his injury leaves the team's outfield depth in question with the regular season just days away. The Mets will now have to adjust their plans for the outfield as they prepare to open the 2026 campaign.

The details

Tauchman, who signed with the Mets in February after stints with several MLB organizations, attempted to remain in the game after the collision but ultimately had to exit due to discomfort from the meniscus tear. The Mets will now have to make a final decision on their outfield configuration with Tauchman sidelined for the foreseeable future.

  • On Sunday, March 22, 2026, the Mets announced Tauchman's injury and upcoming surgery.
  • The Mets' regular season is set to begin on Thursday, March 27, 2026 with a home series against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The players

Mike Tauchman

A veteran outfielder who signed with the Mets in February 2026 and was competing for a spot on the Opening Day roster before suffering a meniscus tear in his knee during spring training.

New York Mets

The MLB team based in New York City that is preparing to open the 2026 regular season after missing the playoffs in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“Mike Tauchman has a meniscus tear. Will require surgery.”

— Mike Puma, Reporter

What’s next

The Mets will have to finalize their outfield plans for the start of the 2026 regular season with Tauchman sidelined due to his knee surgery.

The takeaway

Tauchman's injury is a setback for the Mets as they look to bounce back from missing the playoffs in 2025, and it highlights the importance of depth and flexibility in building a competitive MLB roster.