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NY Mets: 4 internal Michael Conforto replacements for 2022

By Tim Boyle

Jun 30, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; New York Mets right fielder Michael Conforto (30) throws against the Atlanta Braves in the third inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 30, 2021; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; New York Mets right fielder Michael Conforto (30) throws against the Atlanta Braves in the third inning at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 6, 2020; West Palm Beach, Florida, USA; New York Mets outfielder Brandon Nimmo (9) in congratulated by designated hitter Michael Conforto (30) after scoring a run against the Houston Astros in first inning at FITTEAM Ballpark of the Palm Beaches. Mandatory Credit: Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports /

Who plays right field for the 2022 New York Mets? It’s probably the 6,891,093rd item you’re thinking about before you go to bed. I understand inflation is crazy, the country is divided on an abundance of issues, and you cannot even remember if you locked the back door.

It’s okay. I get it. Who plays right field for the Mets next year is not a big thought in your mind. So please kindly let me guide you through a few of the internal options.

Michael Conforto has yet to earn himself a fat contract from the Mets this winter. Struggling for most of 2021 when healthy, it has become apparent that re-signing him isn’t the easiest solution. The team should turn over every stone and consider every option available to them. Fortunately, there are three candidates already with the organization who could potentially replace Conforto in right field to open next year.

Brandon Nimmo is the natural fit for the Mets in right field

We need to give Brandon Nimmo a lot of credit for what he has done in center field this season. For years, the take on him has been that he’s not a natural at the position. It’s still true, but he is becoming well-suited for the position.

Moving Nimmo to a corner spot does make a lot of sense. And I reckon it’s something the front office will think about this winter as they attempt to build the roster. Depending largely on what happens with Conforto, the team could simply slide Nimmo over one spot and then seek out a center fielder.

If there’s any concern at all I might have with Nimmo in right field it’s his lack of power in 2021. I like my right fielders to hit dingers and dongs. Nimmo hasn’t shown much power this year. Could the Mets survive with a pure OBP guy at a traditionally powerful position?

The answer to this depends largely on what other guys do. On paper, they can find plenty of pop elsewhere. The potential addition of the DH could also help the Mets add to the offense and allow for them to comfortably move Nimmo to right field then see what they can do to improve center.

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