Michael Conforto Reflects on Playoff Absence with Dodgers
LOS ANGELES — A decade ago, Michael Conforto was a rookie helping the Mets clinch the National League Championship, marking his sole World Series appearance. Fast forward to now, the 32-year-old outfielder finds himself observing a potential World Series run from the sidelines.
Despite being left off the Dodgers’ NLCS roster—just like in the wild-card round and NLDS—Conforto remains ready to step in if injuries arise, though he can’t help but feel a bit let down.
“I’m just trying to enjoy this experience and soak it all in while being prepared for any opportunity,” he shared before Game 3 of the NLCS, where the Dodgers triumphed over the Brewers 3-1. “It’s motivating not to be on the roster, so I’ve got some work to do before the offseason and see where that takes me.”
This season, Conforto played in 138 games for the Dodgers but struggled, posting a batting line of .199/.305/.333 along with 12 home runs and 36 RBIs.
Surprisingly, some within the organization didn’t expect his exclusion from the postseason. The team opted for veteran Enrique Hernandez, whose extensive postseason experience proved valuable, as he entered Thursday with an impressive .972 OPS.
Having signed a one-year deal worth $17 million after two seasons with the Giants, Conforto noted that adapting to the Dodgers’ dynamics was a challenge for him.
“It was tough,” he admitted. “I faced many rough patches, but being part of such a high-caliber team made me rethink my role. By the season’s end, I began to fulfill what was required of me.”
He also mentioned how striking it is to witness how the team operates: from star power and staff cohesion to the training and analytics approach. “Everything works well together, and the team mentality is impressive,” Conforto remarked.
Before joining the Dodgers, he spent seven seasons with the Mets. His journey included missing the entirety of 2022 due to shoulder rehab before signing with the Giants.
Some former teammates, like Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo, remain with the Mets. Alonso recently indicated he plans on releasing his contract post-World Series, heading into free agency once again.
“It’s hard to picture him in any other uniform; that’s where he established himself,” Conforto said, acknowledging Alonso’s commitment to the team.
Conforto speaks fondly of his connection with Nimmo, as both rose through the Mets’ system and debuted around the same time. “We’re very close. I love watching him grow as a player,” Conforto expressed, appreciating Nimmo’s development and preparation.
As for the Mets’ disappointing season, Conforto shared his surprise at their failure to make the playoffs, reflecting, “When they came to LA in June, they were a tough matchup. The talent was there, and it seemed like a team to watch.”
