Call-up moments will always be some of baseball’s best, and the league is full of them these days as clubs finalize their 2026 Opening Day rosters.
The Mets were among those who had a fast-rising youngster make the cut, officially telling rookie outfielder Carson Benge that he made the team. The club revealed the behind-the-scenes moment in a social media post Tuesday, and the interaction between manager Carlos Mendoza and Benge was as fun as you’d hope.
Mendoza brought Benge into his office with a message. “Came down to the last day. 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,” he said.
But Mendoza had one question. After Benge was drafted 19th overall in the 2024 draft, the organization had him take batting practice at Citi Field. Mendoza asked what he was thinking in that moment.
“Holy [expletive],” Benge replied. “I want to be here.”
Well, he’ll get that chance on Thursday. The Mets host the Pirates at 1:15 p.m. ET (NBC/Peacock) on Thursday to open the 2026 season, and Benge will be in the lineup, starting in right field.
He’s officially a big leaguer.
“Proud of you, man. This is a moment that you will never forget,” Mendoza said. “You worked really hard, and now you just have to enjoy it. You earned it.”
Benge forced his way onto the roster with a red-hot spring, batting .366/.435/.439 with a double, a triple and a stolen base over 46 spring plate appearances.