Mets first baseman debacle – Lucas Duda sidelined with sore back, who should play?

Michael Conforto

We know, we know. Terry Collins doesn’t want to give Michael Conforto time at first base this spring, but that doesn’t mean we agree with him. Because he definitely should give him a look at first.

Conforto is an athlete. He’s shown an ability to learn to play different positions rather quickly. Let’s not forget, we were told he was going to be slightly below average in the outfield before he came up to the Majors. He’s thankfully proven those early scouting reports wrong, and is now able to play every position in the outfield, including center field.

We made an ode to one of his center field catches last year for crying out loud, so we know the guy can adjust and is a pure athlete.

Reports out of camp this year are that Conforto has slimmed down a little this offseason. Most experts believe this will help him be a little quicker and faster on the ball in center, but it can also help his range if he were to ever give the infield a try.

If Terry ever changes his mind when it comes to Conforto and first base, I think he’d do a pretty great job filling in.