Mets rookie Carson Benge makes diving catch in win

Highlight reel plays have been few and far between for the slumping New York Mets this season, but rookie right fielder Carson Benge had one of the best catches of the year on Sunday night.

Los Angeles Angels second baseman Vaughn Grissom hit a line drive down the first base side in the bottom of the ninth inning with one out and a runner on first. Benge then laid out for a spectacular diving catch, likely saving a run and ruining the Angels’ chances to build momentum for a potential comeback.

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The Mets picked up a 5-1 win for their 12th win of the season.

“I still dove without knowing it,” Benge told reporters after the game, via MLB.com . “But I know I was going to try to make a play for my guys.”

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Mets broadcaster Gary Cohen described the play as “pulchritudinous,” leaving Todd Zeile speechless in the stands. Dictionary.com says “pulchritudinous” is used to describe something breathtaking, heartbreaking, or beautiful.

New York Mets players Austin Slater, Tyrone Taylor and Carson Benge celebrate after defeating the Los Angeles Angels in Anaheim, California on May 3, 2026. (Jessie Alcheh/AP)

All of the above really describes Benge’s grip.

At the plate, Benge was 1-for-2 with two runs scored, had an RBI and two walks.

New York took two of three from Los Angeles in their series. It was the Mets’ first series win since taking two games from the Minnesota Twins on April 23.

New York Mets’ Mark Vientos celebrates with Tyrone Taylor as Carson Benge reacts after hitting a home run during the fourth inning against the Los Angeles Angels in Anaheim, Calif., on May 3, 2026. (Jessie Alcheh/AP)

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Mets starter Clay Holmes allowed one run on four hits and struck out six. His ERA improved to 1.69.