In a notable lineup tweak, the Mets announced Carson Benge will man leadoff duties in right field, with a batting order that includes Bo Bichette at shortstop, Francisco Lindor at short, and Luis Robert Jr. in center field, while Kodai Senga is slated to start the game.
Benge is in the middle of his rookie season, entering the game with a .151 batting average, one home run, three RBIs, five runs, and five stolen bases across 16 games.
Reaction on MLB social media to the decision around Benge’s leadoff role was mixed, with fans and analysts weighing the move and the potential impact of giving a young player an opportunity at the top of the order.
The Mets aim to bounce back behind Senga as they face a Cubs squad at a hitter-friendly park, hoping a favorable matchup and a fresh lineup can help reverse the current skid and regain momentum in early-season play.
