Carson Benge Takes a Breather After Historic Performance Against Padres

Following an impressive display on the field, New York Mets right fielder Carson Benge enjoyed a day off. With the Mets not playing on Monday, Benge had the opportunity to reflect on his remarkable achievement during Sunday’s 7-3 victory against the San Diego Padres at Petco Park.

The 23-year-old rookie made history by becoming the 11th player in the live-ball era to record a 5-for-5 game, including a home run and a triple, before reaching the age of 24. Notably, he is the first player to reach this milestone since Mark Reynolds accomplished it in 2007.

Benge has been solidifying his role within the Mets’ lineup, batting either at the top or in the middle of the order. Over the course of six games on the West Coast, he posted a .360 batting average, with three home runs and nine hits in 25 at-bats. Overall, in 62 games this season, Benge has a slash line of .265/.325/.408, along with seven home runs and ten stolen bases.

Two months ago, Benge faced skepticism regarding his ability to compete at the major league level. After struggling through a 0-for-16 slump in early April, he began his first 30 games with a low .179 average, recording just four extra-base hits. However, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza remained confident in him. When Francisco Lindor was placed on injured reserve, Mendoza moved Benge to the top of the batting order, a decision that has proven beneficial.

Since then, Benge has flourished, batting .328 with 13 extra-base hits and 20 RBIs in his last 32 games, helping the struggling Mets (29-36) secure seven victories in their past ten outings. As the team prepares to face the St. Louis Cardinals in a three-game series starting Tuesday at Citi Field, Mendoza praised Benge's performance, stating, “It's pretty incredible. It's cool to see, rockets pretty much everywhere.”