Mets Shortstop Lindor to See Hand Specialist

Potential hamate bone surgery could sideline star for opening day

Feb. 10, 2026 at 9:23pm

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New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor is being evaluated for a stress reaction in his left hand and will visit a hand specialist on Wednesday. If surgery is required to address the hamate bone issue, Lindor could miss the start of the 2023 MLB season.

Why it matters

Lindor is a key player for the Mets, and any extended absence due to injury could significantly impact the team's performance at the start of the season. The Mets are hoping Lindor can avoid surgery and be ready for opening day.

The details

Lindor has experienced soreness in the area around his left hand and wrist over the past couple of days. Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns said that if surgery is required, the recovery time would be around six weeks, potentially putting Lindor back in time for opening day. The Mets also announced that outfielder Juan Soto will shift from right field to left field this season.

  • Lindor experienced the hand/wrist soreness over the past couple of days.
  • Lindor will visit a hand specialist on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.

The players

Francisco Lindor

New York Mets shortstop who is being evaluated for a stress reaction in his left hand.

David Stearns

President of baseball operations for the New York Mets.

Juan Soto

Mets outfielder who will shift from right field to left field this season.

Carlos Mendoza

Manager of the New York Mets.

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What they’re saying

“It is possible this will result in hamate surgery. If it does, that's a six-week recovery, which puts us right at opening day. So at this point, even if it does require surgery, we would remain optimistic that Francisco would be back for opening day.”

— David Stearns, President of baseball operations, New York Mets

“Over the last month or so, as Mendy and Juan were talking about the season, Juan was working out in left field because he's going to play left field for the D.R. in the WBC. As they had their conversations, he felt really comfortable there. It made sense for us from a roster perspective, so we're going to go forward with it and everyone's on board with it.”

— David Stearns, President of baseball operations, New York Mets

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.