Oklahoma State's Carson Benge picked by New York Mets in first round of 2024 MLB Draft

Oklahoma State pitcher/outfielder Carson Benge heard his name called in the first round of the Major League Baseball Draft on Sunday.

The right-handed pitcher and left-handed hitter was selected by the New York Mets with the 19th overall pick in the draft.

The former Yukon High School star began his redshirt sophomore season as a late-inning reliever but moved to the Cowboys’ starting rotation for the final month. He finished with a 3.16 ERA, allowing 13 earned runs over 37 innings with 44 strikeouts and 11 walks.

Benge batted .335 with 18 home runs, 24 doubles and 49 RBIs. He also had 10 stolen bases in 14 attempts and was a reliable right fielder. While he maintained a .300 average virtually all season, Benge had a late power surge, hitting 12 of his home runs in the final 21 games of the season.

Benge is viewed as a potential two-way player in the minor leagues because of his potent bat and electric arm, combined with good athleticism as a corner outfielder. 

Some draft analysts view him as a hitter first, though he could still get the chance to develop his pitching. His fastball has been clocked at 96 mph, offset by an effective slider.

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