After a stellar breakout campaign in 2015, the sky seemed the limit for Michael Conforto‘s talents. This past season though saw a regression in his play, leading to a few stints back at Las Vegas.
“I definitely took a step back and re-evaluated a little bit,” Conforto said. “It was a combination of things. There was a little of some expectations, trying to do too much up there. I think I had a great start to the season and I wanted to keep that pace the entire season.” (Newsday)
Conforto, 23, had a stellar April last season, working to a .365/.442/.676 batting line to go along with four homers and 18 RBI. He unfortunately was not able to replicate those numbers for the rest of the season, mainly staying around a .200 batting average the rest of the way while in the Majors.
It was a trying time for a player who had not sniffed failure yet in his career. A hard pill to swallow for a player who saw so much success the prior year, not just in the regular season, but the postseason as well. He though is ready to put 2016 behind him as he readies for battle this upcoming spring training.
“I’ve been through a lot,” Conforto said. “Last year was a huge growing experience for me. It definitely helped me grow up and mature a little bit. Having the offseason to reflect on everything and let the mind settle a little bit, I feel fresh and ready to go, ready to get after it.”
Unfortunately for Michael and the Mets, the path for him to be an everyday player is not clear right now. There is quite the logjam in the outfield. With the team being unable to trade Jay Bruce, there is no open spot for Conforto.
The team has spoken of exposing Conforto to first base this spring, opening up more playing time for himself, possibly. He likely though will need to open up a lot of eyes yet again in Port St. Lucie to find himself regular playing time to start the upcoming season.
“Obviously, there’s going to be tough decisions,” Conforto said. “Nothing’s handed to you up here in the big leagues, so I’m fully prepared to earn everything that I get.”
The question of what is to become of the young Conforto in 2017 may be the most interesting one to see unfold. If given the opportunity, there is no reason to believe that he won’t find himself under the bright lights of Citi Field once more, dazzling us all.
