
The New York Mets welcomed Carson Benge back to the lineup Sunday after the rookie outfielder missed just one game with a bruised left wrist suffered in Friday's win over the Pittsburgh Pirates.
SNY Mets first reported Benge's return after the outfielder was penciled into the cleanup spot for the series finale at PNC Park. His quick return came after X-rays on his wrist showed no structural damage following Friday's collision with the outfield wall.
Benge exited Friday's 6-4 victory in the fourth inning after slamming into the left-field wall while making a sliding catch on Ronny Simon's deep fly ball. Interim manager Andy Green held him out Saturday as a precaution before clearing him to return less than 48 hours later.
Carson Benge is back in the lineup today for the Mets after missing yesterday's game following a wrist jam in Pittsburgh pic.twitter.com/m7nCASv3Zf
— SNY Mets (@SNY_Mets) August 9, 2026
The rookie has become one of New York's brightest young players this season. Through 112 games, Benge is batting .270 with 13 home runs, 46 RBIs and 18 stolen bases while reaching base in 12 straight games entering Sunday. Green's decision to immediately return him to right field and the cleanup spot reflected the club's confidence that the injury is behind him.
Benge's availability is particularly important as the Mets continue evaluating their young core during the final weeks of the season. Keeping him healthy allows New York to continue giving everyday opportunities to one of its most promising long-term pieces.
The Mets entered Sunday at 51-67, sitting fifth in the National League East after another difficult season that included roster turnover and a managerial change. While postseason hopes have faded, Benge's development remains a priority for the organization.
Avoiding an injured list stint gives the Mets another opportunity to watch one of their top young players finish the season on the field as they continue building toward 2027.
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