Francisco Lindor took a step toward recovery by playing four defensive innings in a minor league game on Tuesday in Port St. Lucie, Florida. The New York Mets defeated the St. Louis Cardinals 6-1 at Clover Park, more than two weeks before their Opening Day on March 26. Lindor, recovering from hand surgery, expressed optimism about his readiness for the season.
PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla. -- On Tuesday, Francisco Lindor participated in a minor league game against the St. Louis Cardinals, playing four defensive innings as the New York Mets won 6-1 at Clover Park. This appearance came more than two weeks ahead of the Mets' Opening Day matchup against the Pittsburgh Pirates on March 26 at Citi Field. Lindor booted one defensive chance but focused on his progress toward full health.
Lindor, who did not bat during the game, has been swinging in an indoor cage but is not yet ready for that workload in a game setting. He is recovering from surgery on February 11 to repair a stress reaction in his left hamate bone, following abnormal hand soreness early in camp. The procedure has a six-week recovery timeline, aligning with Opening Day.
"It felt really good," Lindor said. "I’m tired. It’s part of the process. It was a good day today."
Defensively, Lindor noted the challenge of fielding with reduced strength but remained positive. "But it’s not going to be something where my errors are going to come because of not being as strong in my hands," he said. "At the end of the day, I can catch the ball. So I’m in a good spot. I can’t complain."
The outing followed optimistic comments from Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns, who said Lindor needs game action before Opening Day. Lindor echoed that confidence: "I share his confidence for sure. Our training staff is really good. They’ve been doing everything possible… I trust the process."
At 32, Lindor has a history of hand issues but averaged 158 games over the past four seasons despite injuries, including a back ailment in September 2024, a broken toe in June, and right elbow surgery in October. Last season, he hit .267/.346/.466 with 31 home runs and 31 stolen bases in 160 games, earning his first All-Star selection as a Met and finishing in the top 10 of National League MVP voting for the fourth straight year.
Lindor is "100 percent optimistic" about being ready but acknowledged potential lingering pain. "It’ll be tough to be in a position where I can say I’m going to play 100 percent," he said. "But ultimately, it comes down to being able to play the game at an elite level. That’s what I’m trying to do. Whatever it takes to help my team win."
