As the New York Mets approach Opening Day, most of their roster picture appears surprisingly clear.
Pitching roles are largely defined, the infield alignment is settled, and the outfield already features one of baseball’s biggest stars. But one important question still lingers — who will start in right field when the season begins?
With less than a week remaining before the Mets open the 2026 campaign, that decision remains unresolved.
A Position Left Open This Spring
Mar 5, 2026; West Palm Beach, Florida, USA; New York Mets left fielder Mike Tauchman (50) hits a double against the Washington Nationals during the first inning at CACTI Park of the Palm Beaches. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
The uncertainty began earlier this spring when Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns announced that Juan Soto would move to left field.
That shift left right field without a clear starter, immediately creating a competition that has lasted throughout camp. Among the players given an opportunity to claim the job was one of the organization’s most intriguing young prospects: Carson Benge.
And so far, Benge has taken full advantage.
Across 10 Grapefruit League games, the young outfielder has been one of the Mets’ most productive hitters. He has gone 11-for-30 at the plate — good for a .367 average — while driving in five runs and posting an .839 OPS.
He also added a home run during an exhibition game against Team Israel earlier this month, further reinforcing the idea that his bat may already be close to major league ready.
For a prospect trying to break into the lineup, it’s been an impressive spring.
A Veteran Making the Decision Harder
But Benge is not the only player pushing for the role.
The Mets added veteran outfielder Mike Tauchman during the offseason on a minor league contract, largely as insurance for the position. The 35-year-old spent last season with the Chicago White Sox and produced a respectable .263/.356/.400 slash line across 93 games.
Now he is making a strong impression in camp as well.
Tauchman has gone 7-for-21 during Grapefruit League play, hitting .333 while continuing to show the steady offensive approach that has defined his career. He added two hits and two RBIs during the Mets’ 12–1 win over the Toronto Blue Jays on Sunday, further strengthening his case.
For a player initially viewed as depth, Tauchman’s performance has made the decision far more complicated.
Other Options Exist — But the Race Is Narrowing
There are technically other players who could see time in right field.
Tyrone Taylor remains an option and is widely expected to make the roster thanks to his defensive ability and versatility as a bench outfielder. Brett Baty has also been mentioned as a possible emergency option in right, though his primary roles will likely come at designated hitter and across several infield positions.
Both players provide flexibility, but neither appears to be the leading candidate for the everyday job.
At this point, the competition seems to have narrowed to two names.
Prospect vs. Experience
On one side stands Benge, the emerging prospect whose strong spring has hinted at long-term potential.
On the other is Tauchman, a veteran who has quietly built a reputation for consistency and reliability at the major league level.
The Mets now face a familiar roster dilemma: prioritize immediate experience or invest early in a young player who may represent the future.
Either way, the decision carries weight.
With so many other questions already answered heading into the season, right field has become the final piece of the puzzle for New York.
And with Opening Day just days away, the Mets will soon have to decide which path they trust more — the promise of youth or the stability of experience.
Leave a Reply