Will Benge Break Camp with the Mets in 2026?

This article breaks down the New York Mets’ 2026 spring training plan. The camp’s shaped by big roster turnover, a focus on relationship-building, and decisions that’ll set the Opening Day lineup, bullpen order, and rotation stability.

Spring Training Mission: Building Cohesion After a Major Roster Overhaul

In 2026, the Mets rolled into camp after swapping out nearly a third of their roster. They’re putting chemistry, versatility, and a real look at every option—from outfield to bullpen—front and center.

With Opening Day decisions coming fast, players are fighting for roles and reps. The coaching staff’s watching closely to see who’s ready for the grind.

Left Field Showdown: Carson Benge Gets a Real Shot

Left field’s pretty much up for grabs. Carson Benge, the No. 2 prospect, gets a legit shot at the job, even though he hasn’t played much above Double-A.

If Benge doesn’t make the leap, the Mets might turn to Tyrone Taylor, but his .598 OPS last season isn’t exactly inspiring. There’s also talk of trying Brett Baty in left after signing Bo Bichette, or maybe plugging in Jared Young for his flexibility.

• Carson Benge – main left-field candidate, high-upside prospect
• Tyrone Taylor – veteran depth, could be a stopgap
• Brett Baty – learning left field as part of a bigger plan
• Jared Young – multi-position depth, spring competition

Bullpen Uncertainty and the Kimbrel Factor

The bullpen’s still a puzzle. Craig Kimbrel just signed a Minor League deal that pays $2.5 million if he makes the big club.

Kimbrel’s resume is long, but his recent results? Not so much. Only four relievers—Devin Williams, Luke Weaver, Brooks Raley, and Luis García—feel like locks for Opening Day.

That leaves up to four spots open for Kimbrel, Huascar Brazobán, Tobias Myers, A.J. Minter (if he’s healthy), and some younger arms: Dylan Ross, Ryan Lambert, and Jonathan Pintaro.

• Craig Kimbrel – high-risk, high-reward veteran project
• Huascar Brazobán – bullpen depth with some upside
• Tobias Myers – versatile arm, could be a factor later
• A.J. Minter – potential impact if he’s back to full health
• Dylan Ross, Ryan Lambert, Jonathan Pintaro – young arms hoping to break through

Rotation Outlook: Senga’s Status and In-House Contenders

Kodai Senga’s spot in the rotation is a big question mark after a rough year that ended with a demotion to Triple-A. He’s got a full offseason to reset, and the Mets want to give him another shot since he’s owed $30 million over the next two seasons.

But nobody’s penciling him in as a sure thing anymore. With Freddy Peralta, Nolan McLean, Sean Manaea, Clay Holmes, and David Peterson in the mix, plus prospects like Jonah Tong, Christian Scott, and J. Myers, there’s a real competition brewing.

If Senga bounces back, maybe they roll with a six-man rotation. If not, the Mets have to decide whether to move him to the bullpen or see if there’s a trade out there.

In-House Rotation Competition: Who Will Fill the Spots?

Beyond Senga, the Mets are banking on a mix of proven innings and some intriguing prospects. Names like Freddy Peralta, Nolan McLean, Sean Manaea, Clay Holmes, David Peterson, and younger arms—Jonah Tong, Christian Scott, Tobias Myers—are all in the hunt.

Spring will show who grabs a rotation spot, who waits in reserve, and if the six-man idea sticks as a way to manage inconsistency.

Prospects to Watch in Spring Training

• Jonah Tong – He’s a high-upside arm, and you might see him fight for rotation opportunities.
• Christian Scott – Southpaw with something to prove. He’s hoping to catch some eyes this spring.
• Dylan Ross – Adds depth to the bullpen. If things break his way, you could see him climb quickly.
• Ryan Lambert – A young arm, still raw, but maybe this is the year he breaks through.
• Jonathan Pintaro – He’s joining the sprint to the majors. Don’t be surprised if he pops up sooner than expected.
• Tobias Myers – Versatile and already bullpen-ready. There’s a chance he grows into a starter with a bit more seasoning.

 
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