Michael Conforto is no stranger to the high-stakes atmosphere of Yankee Stadium. Having spent seven years with the Mets, he participated in numerous Subway Series games, compiling a .229 batting average with two home runs, nine RBIs, and 18 strikeouts in 17 appearances.
Yet, what stands out to him now is the stadium’s capacity of 46,537 fans. “The atmosphere is going to be electric,” Conforto said, expressing his anticipation for the season opener.
Conforto, now a member of the San Francisco Giants, will face the Yankees in a three-game series to kick off the season. After missing the entirety of last year due to shoulder surgery, he’s eager to return to the field following his two-year, $36 million contract signed in January. Thursday’s game will mark his first major-league appearance in over 18 months.
“I’m sure I’ll experience some jitters and nerves being back in a real game,” Conforto admitted.
An All-Star in 2017, Conforto played with the Mets from 2015 to 2021, finishing his last season with a .232 average, 14 home runs, and 55 RBIs. He declined a one-year, $18.4 million qualifying offer to enter free agency, but a shoulder injury in early 2022 delayed his return. He underwent surgery three months later and is now feeling ready. In spring training, he hit .213 with four home runs and a .758 OPS in 47 at-bats.
“I’m feeling great and healthy now,” Conforto said. “It’s fantastic to be back and to start the season in New York. I’m really looking forward to it.”