Juan Soto Praised Mets Rookie Carson Benge
The veteran mentor highlighted the defensive metrics and offensive production of the young New York outfielder.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Baseball
Juan Soto has publicly praised New York Mets rookie Carson Benge for his performance during his debut season. The 23-year-old outfielder has become a key contributor for the team since being selected 19th overall in the 2024 MLB draft.
Why it matters
Soto serves as a mentor to the young player and believes Benge possesses significant potential to grow as he matures. Improving his emotional control on the field remains the primary area of focus for his ongoing professional development.
Benge currently holds a .273 batting average with 17 home runs, 57 RBIs, and 22 stolen bases. His defensive capabilities are underscored by an arm strength rating in the 98th percentile and an arm value in the 96th percentile.
The players
Juan Soto
He is a veteran MLB star currently serving as a mentor to rookie players within the New York Mets organization.
Carson Benge
He is a 23-year-old rookie right fielder for the New York Mets who played collegiate baseball at Oklahoma State.
The details
After starring at Oklahoma State, Benge joined the Mets' Opening Day roster and hit a home run in his first major league at-bat. He continues to establish himself as a dual-threat player capable of providing both power at the plate and elite defensive range in the field.
Timeline
The Mets selected Carson Benge 19th overall in the 2024 MLB draft.
Benge hit his first major league home run on March 26, 2026.
Benge's defensive arm rating statistics were recorded in August 2026.
Juan Soto discussed Benge's progress with SNY on September 19, 2026.
Season Trajectory
Benge's emergence from the 2024 MLB draft selection process has stabilized the Mets' outfield rotation. His immediate impact positions him as a cornerstone piece for the franchise as they navigate the remainder of the current campaign.
Fantasy managers should note Benge's high-percentile arm value and stolen base count, which provide consistent value across multiple scoring categories. His current .273 batting average suggests he is a reliable option for managers seeking multi-category production from a rookie.
The takeaway
Young players like Benge often benefit significantly from the guidance of veteran mentors during their transition to the major leagues. Developing a balance between raw athletic talent and emotional composure is vital for maintaining long-term success at the highest level of the sport.
Further reading
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