Carson Benge Shaves Mustache and Comes Up Clutch for Mets to Snap 5-Game Losing Streak

Rookie outfielder Carson Benge helped the New York Mets snap a five-game losing streak on Wednesday after making a significant change to his appearance.

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On the heels of deciding to shave his mustache, Benge went 2-for-4 with two RBI in the Mets' 4-2 victory over the Cincinnati Reds.

The 23-year-old Benge later explained the move, telling reporters, "I haven't really been getting a ton of hits, so I just shaved it off and it worked."

The Mets have performed well below expectations this season with a 22-33 record, which places them last in the National League East, 14 games behind the first-place Atlanta Braves.

However, amid the team's struggles, Benge has shown a great deal of promise as a player who can potentially contribute for years to come.

Benge has been one of the Mets' most consistent presences in the lineup, appearing in 52 games and slashing .242/.307/.330 with three home runs and 18 RBI. He also leads the team with nine stolen bases and is tied for the team lead with 25 runs scored.

Per the Associated Press (h/t ESPN), Benge has been especially good since April 23, hitting .300 with 17 RBI and 19 runs in 32 games.

Most of the focus entering this season was on big-name, high-dollar players for the Mets, such as Juan Soto, Francisco Lindor and Bo Bichette.

Soto has performed well despite a stint on the injured list, but Lindor is currently on the IL and Bichette has been a disappointment after being the Mets' crown jewel free-agent signing during the offseason.

New York has had to lean on young players far more than expected, and Benge has emerged as someone manager Carlos Mendoza can rely on.

Benge was exceeding expectations even before he dispatched his facial hair, but after the success he enjoyed Wednesday, he may stick with the clean-shaven look for the foreseeable future.