New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor will not participate in the 2026 World Baseball Classic for Puerto Rico due to insurance constraints following a recent elbow surgery. The MLB Players Association confirmed the decision, noting Lindor's disappointment but full involvement in spring training. Puerto Rico's team is considering withdrawal amid similar insurance issues affecting multiple players.
Francisco Lindor, the New York Mets' five-time All-Star shortstop, underwent a cleanup procedure on his right elbow in October, rendering him ineligible for the 2026 World Baseball Classic. The MLB Players Association issued a statement on Friday explaining the situation: "Francisco is obviously disappointed that he will be unable to participate. However, because of WBC insurance constraints, he is ineligible to play in WBC games." The statement added that Lindor, who turned 32 in November, will fully engage in all spring training activities.
Lindor had planned to represent his native Puerto Rico, the team he played for in the 2017 and 2023 tournaments. This procedure follows a surgery two years prior to remove bone spurs from the same elbow. Despite ongoing elbow discomfort and other ailments, Lindor has shown remarkable durability since signing a 10-year, $341 million contract with the Mets in 2021, averaging 151 games per season overall and 158 over the past four years.
In the 2025 season, Lindor led Major League Baseball with 732 plate appearances, posting an .811 OPS and 129 OPS+ in an All-Star campaign. He achieved the 30-30 club for the second time with 31 home runs and 31 stolen bases.
The issue extends beyond Lindor. According to MLB insider Hector Gomez, Puerto Rico is considering withdrawing its national team from the tournament due to denied medical insurance coverage for several key players, including Lindor, Carlos Correa, José Berríos, Víctor Caratini, Yacksel Ríos, Jovani Morán, Emilio Pagán, and Alexis Díaz. While no final decision has been made, the situation highlights ongoing challenges with insurance for international play, potentially impacting a team expected to be competitive in the Classic.
