NEW YORK -- Although the Mets spoke briefly with Jay Bruce about playing some first base this season, it appears their need for him will be greatest in the outfield. The Mets do not expect Michael Conforto to return until around May 1, general manager Sandy Alderson said Wednesday, placing the most concrete timetable yet on the outfielder's return from left shoulder surgery.
"Conforto probably will not be ready," Alderson said. "Everything's going as planned. There have been no setbacks. But his schedule is such that I don't expect him back until the first of May."
The Mets' lone All-Star last season, Conforto hit .279 with 27 homers in 109 games before dislocating his left shoulder and tearing a capsule in August. He subsequently underwent surgery, from which he is still recovering.
With Conforto sidelined, the Mets will proceed with a regular outfield alignment of Yoenis Cespedes in left, Juan Lagares in center and Bruce in right. Brandon Nimmo is also an option to split time with Lagares, though Nimmo's name has reportedly come up in recent trade talks.
Once Conforto does return, he will supplant Lagares in center -- provided everyone else is healthy.