In a promising glimpse of the New York Mets’ future, Carson Benge and A.J. Ewing took to the outfield together on Sunday, marking the second time in three days they showcased their talents in a game against the Yankees. The duo played pivotal roles in the Mets’ 10-4 exhibition victory at Clover Park, providing fans and officials alike a reason to be excited about what lies ahead.
Benge, a highly regarded prospect vying for the starting right field position, made an impressive impression, finishing the game 2-for-3. Meanwhile, Ewing, also among the organization’s top prospects, contributed a two-run single against left-handed pitcher Ryan Weathers. Manager Carlos Mendoza expressed his enthusiasm for the pair, noting, “They have the ability to impact the game in so many different ways. It wasn’t an easy matchup there with left-on-left with Weathers and the way he was throwing the ball. A couple of two-strike approaches when they put the ball in play and just make things happen. The way they run the bases, the way they play defense, it’s just good baseball from them so far.”
Mendoza explained that Benge’s start in center field was part of the team’s strategy to give him a taste of the position, especially with Luis Robert Jr. set to make his Grapefruit League debut in a Mets uniform on Thursday. Benge reflected on his performance against Weathers, stating, “I felt like I was on time with everything. I saw him well; he had really good stuff, but I felt like I stuck to my plan and did my job.”
In other news, right-hander Robert Stock is slated to undergo surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome. After pitching three scoreless innings for Team Israel against the Marlins in a World Baseball Classic scrimmage, he experienced discomfort but remains optimistic about returning to the mound before the season concludes. Additionally, Brandon Waddell was scratched from his scheduled start on Monday due to shoulder fatigue, prompting Mendoza to announce that he will pitch later in the week. In his place, Zach Thornton will be called up from minor league camp to start against the Marlins at Clover Park.
Mendoza is also keeping a close eye on his World Baseball Classic pitchers from afar. After Clay Holmes delivered three scoreless innings for Team USA against Great Britain, the Mets manager took the time to review video of Holmes’ outing, remarking, “He was pretty dominant.” As the Mets prepare for the season, the performance of their youthful prospects and the health of their pitching staff will be key storylines to follow.
Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.
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