Carson Benge via his Instagram

The New York Mets announced on Wednesday night they’ve signed first-rounder Carson Benge. Jim Callis of MLB Pipeline reports the bonus for Benge is below slot value for the No. 19 pick at $3,997,500 (slot: $4,219,200). He will begin his career at the Florida Complex League in Port St. Lucie, FL.

“Today is another exciting day as we continue to build our farm system,” said vice president of amateur scouting Kris Gross. “I want to congratulate Carson and his family on all the hard work they have put in to get to this point. Carson is an incredibly athletic player who can impact the game in multiple facets. I look forward to watching him develop as he begins his journey to the major leagues. Additionally, I want to thank David Stearns, the Amateur Scouting Staff, and the entire Baseball Operations Department for their time and dedication. The draft is a process that starts months before any pick is ever made and the entire team put in long hours and diligent work to make today a success.”

The 21-year-old split his time between pitching and playing outfield for Oklahoma State this season. The junior posted a triple-slash of .335/.444/.665 for the year with 18 homers and 64 RBIs. On the mound, he posted a 3.16 ERA over 37 innings with 44 strikeouts and a 1.00 WHIP. He was a finalist for the John Olerud Two-Way Player of the Year Award.

The Mets have now signed every pick from the 2024 draft except for ninth-rounder RHP Jaxon Jelkin and 20th-rounder SS Adam Haight.