Mets OF Conforto to open season on DL
Michael Conforto is ahead of schedule, but the New York Mets plan for the center fielder to spend at least 10 days on the disabled list continuing his recovery from offseason shoulder surgery.
His recovery advanced more rapidly than expected in spring training.
The Mets ramped up his workload when he played in the field following a two-homer game in a minor league scrimmage and hitting for the cycle the next day, but general manager Sandy Alderson informed Conforto he would begin the season on the disabled list.
Conforto, 25, had surgery in September after dislocating his left shoulder on a swing during a game against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Aug. 24. The injury ended what was a breakout season for Conforto, who hit .279/.384/.555 with 27 home runs and 68 RBIs in earning his first career All-Star selection.
Conforto primarily played left field last season but with Yoenis Cespedes healthy, Conforto is likely to play in center. Jay Bruce, who rejoined the team on a three-year, $39 million deal after being traded by the Mets to the Cleveland Indians last season, will likely man right field while Brandon Nimmo and Juan Lagares split time in center.
When Conforto returns, he is expected to take over in center, where he appeared in 43 games last season.
--Field Level Media
