Francisco Lindor’s Spring Debut Sparks Optimism for Mets

PORT ST. LUCIE — The Mets seem to be piecing everything together, especially after Francisco Lindor took the field on Sunday, easing many concerns about their readiness for Opening Day.

Lindor, an All-Star shortstop, made his Spring Training debut in the Grapefruit League, playing four innings and getting three at-bats against the Blue Jays at Clover Park. It was a long-awaited return, as he spent the last month rehabbing from left hamate bone surgery. Just recently, he’s begun making noticeable strides toward being game-ready.

In the game, which was called in the fifth inning due to rain, Lindor managed one hit in three at-bats. The Mets ended up winning decisively, 8-1.

“I felt a lot like myself,” Lindor reflected. “Finishing the game in good spirits was a plus. Overall, it was a good day for me.”

He plans to take Monday off before likely rejoining the Grapefruit League on Tuesday. The Mets will continue spring training through next weekend and are set to kick off the season against the Pirates on March 26 at Citi Field.

Coach Carlos Mendoza mentioned that there’s no strict schedule for Lindor’s exhibition games, considering his recent surgery.

“You could really see him improving, not just defensively but also how he was swinging the bat while practicing,” Mendoza noted. “Being at the plate, he looks sharp.”

In his last at-bat, Lindor hit a ball that cleared the right field wall—well, almost. It was a foul ball, but it still hinted that his power remains intact post-surgery. “I doubt it will be long before the power translates to games,” he said. “Right now, I’m feeling good about my swing. Before my wrist injury, I was trying to connect with balls over 100 mph during the offseason. Today, I hit two. If I make contact with the right pitches, I believe the ball will go where I want it to.”

When asked about any physical differences while batting, he mentioned, “There’s a slight difference, but nothing significant. I feel good from both sides.” He emphasized that he would continue to test his limits throughout spring training and felt confident facing other players.

Lindor is the second starter to make his debut this week, following Luis Robert Jr., who appeared on Thursday after a slower comeback to focus on his leg strength.

On Sunday, Lindor was paired in the field with his new double play partner, Marcus Semien, while Bo Bichette played third and Brett Batty held first. “Playing alongside Marcus was fantastic,” Lindor shared. “There was a moment when I thought, ‘Wow, there’s a shortstop next to me.’ It was a cool experience.”

He faced challenges during the game, especially when he had to dive for a ball in the middle. “There was a moment of hesitation when I hit the ground. I thought, ‘Hmm, that’s not right,’” Lindor recounted. “But I got up and was fine. Every time I felt some discomfort, the training staff reassured me that I was in good shape as long as the pain went away. It didn’t hold me back. I played full speed for the rest of the game, which boosted my confidence.”