If there is one spot on the New York Mets‘ roster that they have yet to find a full-time answer with, it would probably be in right field.
With the news that Juan Soto will be moved to left field this season, due in large part to him playing at that position in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, right field now seems to be up in the air for New York. While Tyrone Taylor and even Brett Baty have been mentioned as possible options in right field, another name has been swirling around as well.
That name is outfielder Carson Benge, who is the Mets’ No. 2-ranked prospect according to MLB.com (behind only Nolan McLean). President of baseball operations David Stearns made it very clear at the onset of spring training that Benge will have an opportunity to win a roster spot this spring. While it’s too early to say if Benge will make the Opening Day roster, Soto’s endorsement of Benge could perhaps help the top prospect win a roster spot by the end of spring.
How Juan Soto’s praise of Carson Benge can help him win a roster spot
On Sunday, Soto took the mic for the first time this spring. The All-Star obviously had a lot to say about the Mets’ roster overhaul during the offseason, his move to left field, the WBC and more. Perhaps the most notable part of his press conference was giving his early impressions of Benge.
“I heard the prospect is big time in right field, we’re going to see if he can make the team,” Soto said of Benge.