New York Mets rookie Carson Benge is emerging as a strong contender for the National League Rookie of the Year award, with his recent performance driving increased attention and shifting betting odds. Benge is currently hitting .321 in August with a .937 OPS, contributing to a 10-game winning streak for the Mets. Despite his offensive surge and notable defensive plays, his odds to win the award remain at 22/1 on DraftKings.
The perceived frontrunner for the award is St. Louis Cardinals second baseman J.J. Wetherholt, whose odds are -160 on DraftKings. Wetherholt's strong defensive metrics, including the second-most outs above average and fifth-best defensive runs saved in MLB, have bolstered his case. However, his offensive performance has faltered in the second half, with a .185 batting average in August and .221 in July, though his early offensive production compensated for these recent struggles. Wetherholt currently holds a higher WAR than Benge.
Another significant competitor is Cincinnati Reds first baseman Sal Stewart. Stewart has showcased considerable power, with 26 home runs and 91 RBIs by mid-August. His August performance includes three home runs and seven RBIs in 61 plate appearances, maintaining a .279 batting average and .771 OPS for the month, which aligns with his season-long .258 average and .810 OPS. If Stewart maintains his current pace, he is projected to finish the 162-game season with 34 home runs and 118 RBIs. His defensive capabilities at first base are considered around league average.
Benge's odds have seen movement on other platforms, with FanDuel adjusting his odds from 15/1 to 10/1 after a recent game where he recorded two outfield assists in a single inning. Prediction markets, such as Kalshi, also show increasing confidence in Benge, listing him at +940. The disparity in odds across different betting sites suggests a disagreement on his true valuation, with 22/1 on DraftKings being presented as a potentially favorable bet for those looking for long odds.
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