Empire Writes Back
Fansided

New York Mets: Michael Conforto Believes He Will Bounce Back in 2017

By Nick Ziegler

Sep 23, 2016; New York City, NY, USA; New York Mets left fielder Michael Conforto (30) hits a double against the Philadelphia Phillies during the second inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 23, 2016; New York City, NY, USA; New York Mets left fielder Michael Conforto (30) hits a double against the Philadelphia Phillies during the second inning at Citi Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit

One of the players to watch this spring for the New York Mets this spring training is Michael Conforto. Will he be able to bounce back this season?

One of the most talented young players on the New York Mets is outfielder Michael Conforto. After coming up during the 2015 season, Conforto emerged as an impact player for the Mets. In 56 games, Conforto helped spark the offense, as he totaled a .270 batting average, nine home runs, and 26 RBIs.

The strong start to his career resulted in Conforto having some big expectations placed on his shoulders in the 2016 season. These expectations might have gotten the best of Conforto in 2016

"“There was some expectation there that I wanted to exceed,” Conforto said to Abbey Mastracco of NJ.com. “I got off to a great start and hit a rough patch of failure a little bit.”"

Last season, Conforto totaled a .220 batting average, 12 home runs, and 42 RBIs. Due to the struggles, he also spent some time in the minors trying to work things out. With a lot of potential, Conforto has worked hard this offseason to get into great shape to fight for a roster spot.

"“When you come into camp in great shape, that immediately shows how dedicated you are to coming in and making an impact,” Manager Terry Collins said to Mastracco. “He’s got himself in outstanding shape, he’s bound and determined to make this team and be the guy he was in 2015 and I wouldn’t put it past him.”“I was trying to do a little bit too much, wanted to pull the ball a little bit,” Conforto said to Mastracco. “But really, it was a combination of a lot of things and I think going through that has really helped me grow as a player. I learned a lot about how you get yourself out of those things and not to panic. We play so many games and there’s so many opportunities. Just stay within yourself and be your own player and do what you know how to do.”"

This season, the Mets have a lot of bodies in the outfield. As of now, Yoenis Cespedes, Jay Bruce, Curtis Granderson, and Juan Lagares all should have roster spots. However, the Mets could elect to carry five outfielders to include Conforto.

Next: 5 Reasons to be Excited About the Mets in 2017

In the spring, it will be important for Conforto to produce. If he doesn’t impress the coaches, he likely will be starting the season in the minors.

Home/New York Mets