NEW YORK – The Mets opted Monday to keep top outfield prospect Michael Conforto in the major leagues despite activating Michael Cuddyer from the disabled list. The Mets instead sent third baseman-outfielder Eric Campbell to Class AAA Las Vegas.

Cuddyer, 36, was New York's primary left fielder until he went on the DL on July 24 because of an inflamed left knee. The lefthanded swinging Conforto was called up from Class AA ball at that time.

Conforto was set to play left field and bat seventh against Colorado on Monday. Manager Terry Collins said Cuddyer will play the next two games with the Rockies throwing lefthanders.

"We're looking to play the best nine players we can in any given game, and he qualifies," General Manager Sandy Alderson said of Conforto, "especially against righthanded pitching."

Associated Press