Mets' Tauchman Exits Spring Game with Left Knee Soreness

Mets manager Carlos Mendoza provides update on outfielder's injury status.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 8:37pm

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New York Mets outfielder Mike Tauchman was removed from Saturday's spring training game against the Houston Astros due to left knee soreness. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza announced that trainers were examining Tauchman, who was competing for a roster spot this spring.

Why it matters

Tauchman's injury comes at a critical time as the Mets must finalize their roster before Opening Day. The team signed Tauchman to a minor-league deal in February, and he was having a strong spring training performance, making a case to make the major league roster. This setback could jeopardize his chances if the injury persists.

The details

Tauchman was playing right field and batting eighth for the Mets when he appeared to be in discomfort heading out to the field between innings. He was then removed from the game early. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed that Tauchman is dealing with left knee soreness and that trainers were examining him.

  • Tauchman left the game on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

The players

Mike Tauchman

A minor-league outfielder signed by the Mets in the offseason who was competing for a roster spot this spring training.

Carlos Mendoza

The manager of the New York Mets.

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What they’re saying

“Mike Tauchman left the game after citing soreness in his left knee. Mets trainers are examining him now, per Carlos Mendoza.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

What’s next

The Mets must evaluate the severity of Tauchman's left knee injury and determine if he will be ready for the start of the regular season. If the injury lingers, it could jeopardize his chances of making the Opening Day roster.

The takeaway

Tauchman's injury is a setback in his bid to earn a spot on the Mets' roster, as the team must finalize their roster decisions soon. The timing of this injury could not be worse for Tauchman as he tries to secure a place on a Mets team built to contend immediately.