The New York Mets saw Carson Benge have a great rookie season, and he thinks he deserves some hardware.
"I don't know (Sal Stewart), but he seems like a great dude," Benge told the New York Post's Mike Puma. "He's a Jesus man, which I love. He seems like a great person. But I feel like I would be deserving of the award in the most humble way possible. I don't mean to come off cocky. I think I deserve it. I think I showed in the whole season, in all facets of the game, that I did a pretty good job showcasing my talent, but there's definitely other good rookies out there."
Stewart finished third in baseball in RBIs. There are plenty of arguments as to whether that should be seen as an individual feat, but it's impressive nonetheless for a player playing in his first full season. Stewart finished with a slash line of .263/.330/.457 and hit 32 home runs. He also stole 15 bases.
Benge slashed .282/.346/.430 with 20 home runs and 22 stolen bases. Both had great years at the plate, but Stewart had more slugging in his game. However, what separates the two is defense.
Benge was a plus defender in the outfield, and his arm value ranked in the 100th percentile at plus-7. Stewart posted a minus-two outs above average at first base.
Benge certainly has a case to win Rookie of the Year, but Stewart is a heavy favorite. Benge was a more complete player and will be a huge part of the Mets' future regardless of whether he wins Rookie of the Year or not.