Three days ago, Francisco Lindor hit two home runs to lead the Mets to a victory that capped off a long-awaited road trip.
On Saturday, he had four strikeouts and popped out with the bases loaded, ending a miserable two-game home losing streak.
It’s been one step forward, two steps back to the start of the season for the star shortstop.
After the Mets lost 7-4 to the Cardinals at Citi Field, Lindor said, “It was one of several opportunities where I could have helped the team, whether it was by scoring or making a save.” Told. Series for 2 consecutive years. “It’s one of those things. You look back and you try to play play by play and you’re not happy with it.”
He added: “We have to put the ball in play. That’s the main thing.” It’s an uphill battle for me. I have to stay the course and keep climbing. I just need to have better at-bats.”
Lindor, notorious for his slow start, struck out in his first four innings at bat, but had a chance for revenge in the ninth.
The Mets, who were leading 6-0 at one point, loaded the bases with two outs and sent in Lindor as the batter with a chance of winning.
He swung off the first pitch he saw from closer Ryan Helsley, but couldn’t get on top of the 161 mph fastball and it went to shortstop Macin Wynn.
“If you get four strikeouts, you swing,” he joked when asked what his approach was. “I thought it was a good pitch to hit. It was just a pitch there. I just missed it.”
Lindor, who was 0-for-5, returned to the interstate and posted a .198 batting average and .626 OPS.
On Saturday, he swung six pitches outside the strike zone and let his emotions get the best of him after chasing down Dart’s fastball in the eighth inning.
Lindor sprinted to first base on a wild pitch, but missed the baseline and ran too far onto the turf while beating the throw.
Lindor had to be restrained. He later admitted that the correct call was made.
“They got it right,” he said. “Bottom line, they got it right. Hats off to them. They definitely went too far into the grass.”
It was part of a memorable day for the Mets shortstop. It was one of many days for him so far this young season.
