New York Mets outfielder Carson Benge. Kevin R. Wexler-NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Why Mets rookie Carson Benge could notch a 20-20 season

By Vanessa Serrao | Last updated Mar 28, 2026 1:06 PM ET

The power and speed upside of New York Mets rookie Carson Benge makes him a prime candidate to reach the 20-20 club this season.

Benge earned a spot on the Mets' Opening Day roster after a strong camp during which he slashed .366/.435/.439 with a .874 OPS. The high-impact rookie made his way into the big leagues after making just 90 Triple-A at-bats.

His strong performance in 2025 was marked by his rise through the minors from High-A to Triple-A. Overall, he demonstrated formidable contact skills paired with solid power that reinforces his capability to hit 20 or more home runs.

Benge homered in his MLB debut against the Pittsburgh Pirates, pointing to his raw power. He also recorded an impressive 91.5% zone contact, ranked in the 89th percentile, placing him in a good position to have a breakout season with the Mets.

What an MLB debut for Carson Benge yesterday.

5 PA
HR
SB
2 BB (2 K)
2 R

Benge has the skills to push 20/20 as a rookie this season.#LGM pic.twitter.com/THJ4SVot3U
— Eric Cross (@EricCrossMLB) March 27, 2026

Carson Benge has 20-20 potential for New York Mets

The emerging threat has a high-end 60-grade throwing arm that makes him a solid defender as an outfielder who reads the ball well.

He has shown his ability to lift and elevate the ball effectively, which has improved through his ascent in the minors in 2025. His rapid promotion in the minors highlights his smooth transition and ability to adjust to big-league play.

The left-handed power hitter has also reached exit velocities of 110 mph in 2025 and early 2026. He carries above-average speed and stole 22 bases in 2025 across three levels in the minors across 116 games. His athleticism and reliability have earned him an everyday role in right field.

He also possesses good plate discipline by drawing long counts and refraining from expanding the zone. His solid walk-rate (13.1-13.5 % across all three levels), good on-base ability and power that will continue to develop point to his high-upside as a young star.

Vanessa Serrao

Serrao is a freelance baseball writer who has covered all MLB teams, with particular expertise on the Toronto Blue Jays. She is a member of the Internet Baseball Writers Association of America.

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