Mets keeping Conforto as Cuddyer returns, will send Campbell down

NEW YORK -- The New York Mets are keeping top prospect Michael Conforto in the majors, even after activating Michael Cuddyer from the disabled list Monday.

Eric Campbell was sent down to Triple-A Las Vegas instead.

Conforto will stay despite making a leap from Double-A to the big leagues July 24 and batting .222 in his first 11 games here.

"[Conforto's] handled himself very well, and I think as much as anything one of the things that gives us confidence about his continued playing time is the way he's played in left field," Mets general manager Sandy Alderson said. "We're very happy with what he's done."

Conforto, who bats left-handed, was in the lineup Monday with the Mets facing Colorado Rockies right-hander Jon Gray. Cuddyer, who bats from the right side, was on the bench.

Conforto went 0-for-3 with a walk and a run scored in the Mets' 4-2 win.

"We're looking to play the best nine players we can in any given game, and [Conforto] qualifies in those instances, particularly against right-handed pitching," Alderson said.

The Mets also added slugging outfielder Yoenis Cespedes just before the July 31 trading deadline. Manager Terry Collins plans to choose his outfield alignment on a game-to-game basis.

"We've got some moving parts, and we'll just figure out what the best pieces are nightly as we look at who we're facing and how guys are doing," Collins said.

Conforto, naturally, said he was pleased to remain with the team.

"I'm glad I'm gonna stay," Conforto said. "I don't really know what the role is gonna be, but whatever's asked of me, I'm all in."

Cuddyer did not seem troubled by sitting Monday or the prospect of diminished playing time.

"Like I said from Day 1, I'm up for whatever," Cuddyer said. "Whatever Terry feels is gonna help him win the game, that's what I'm about."