Mets Rumors: Possible Michael Conforto demotion sends the wrong message

The New York Mets rumor that has everyone talking suggests Michael Conforto could get demoted. If this is the move they make, the front office has waved the white flag on 2018.

According to Joel Sherman of the NY Post, the New York Mets have found their scapegoat for the offensive woes. Outfielder Michael Conforto may feel the thunder as it’s rumored that he may get demoted to Triple-A Las Vegas.

A trip to Las Vegas means something different for Mets players. It’s not a crazy bachelor party-like trip where everything that happens there, stays there. A move to Las Vegas for them is a slap in the face. It’s especially true for Conforto.

The Mets are looking at a roster crunch once Yoenis Cespedes returns. Wilmer Flores isn’t far behind either, meaning they need to clear out a seat on the bench.

Unfortunately for Conforto, it appears that he will receive the wrath.

Demoting Conforto sends the wrong message. He’s a core guy the franchise would like to build around. At this point in the season, most of us can agree that something major needs to happen to shake things up. Sending Conforto down won’t get the message through.

This is a case of minor league options, however. Many of his more deserving teammates don’t have them. In order to find a spot, those guys would need to receive walking papers.

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Adrian Gonzalez has not played poorly enough for the Mets to DFA him. Jose Reyes is a different story. His ability to play multiple infield position is what is keeping him around for the time being.

As poorly as Conforto has hit this year and especially as of late (.219/.340/.365), he still has the second best OBP on the roster, excluding Kevin Plawecki. Conforto has reached base at the same rate as Asdrubal Cabrera. The difference is that Cabrera is doing it with his bat and Conforto has done it with his eye.

The biggest culprit in this issue is how the roster was structured. Injuries do play a part, but even without them, this team has far too many left-handed bats and guys hitting from either side not doing much at all. In June, we’re seeing how this affects major decisions.

I wouldn’t blame fans for tuning out games if Conforto is sent down. He’s a beloved player and one of a few guys actually getting on base.

At his age, I don’t think a demotion for Conforto would seriously damage his ego. It’s a good thing that can only help him.

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Sending Conforto to the minor leagues does, however, signal the Mets are waving the white flag early this season.