New York Mets Manager Carlos Mendoza Welcomes Carson Benge to the Roster: ‘You Earned It. You’re a Big-Leaguer.’

Former Oklahoma State star Carson Benge made the New York Mets’ opening roster this week and the organization shared his memorable reaction.

Benge was a first-round pick in 2024 for the Mets and is the organization’s No. 2 prospect. He came in with plenty of promise but had to earn this spot. He tied the Mets in Grapefruit League appearances with 46 and he led the club with 15 hits and finished batting .366 and with an .874 OPS.

He made the Mets’ opening day roster Tuesday and on Wednesday, the organization shared his reaction when he sat down with coaching staff, including manage Carlos Mendoza.

“Came down to the last day,” said Mendoza. “We appreciate how you went about your business. You’ve had a helluva camp. You carry yourself like a big leaguer. You play like a freaking big leaguer.”

When Mendoza asked what was going through the head of the Yukon, Oklahoma native during his first batting practice, all he could say was, ““Holy [expletive]. I want to be here.”

The former All-American at OSU was drafted 19th overall in the first round of the 2024 MLB Draft by the Mets. As a sophomore with the Pokes, he hit. 335 and 18 home runs while also going 3-2 with the three saves from the mound with a 3.16 ERA.

Benge will get the start at right field for the Mets when they open their season against the Pittsburgh Pirates at 12:15 p.m. on Thursday.

“He earned it…we are all excited to watch this kid play”

Carlos Mendoza on Carson Benge making the Mets’ Opening Day roster
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— Milb Central (@milb_central) March 23, 2026