Mets' Lindor to Undergo Hand Surgery, Expected Back by Opening Day

Shortstop has stress fracture in left hamate bone, will miss 6 weeks of spring training

Feb. 11, 2026 at 5:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The New York Mets announced that star shortstop Francisco Lindor will undergo surgery to repair a stress fracture in his left hamate bone. The team is optimistic Lindor will be ready to play by Opening Day, despite the 6-week recovery timeline. Lindor has played through injuries in recent seasons, and the Mets feel confident he can return in time for the start of the regular season.

Why it matters

Lindor is a key part of the Mets' lineup and defense, so his absence during spring training could impact the team's preparation and chemistry heading into the new season. However, the Mets have depth in the infield and feel they can compensate if Lindor needs additional time to fully recover.

The details

Lindor suffered the injury during spring training and a hand specialist confirmed the stress fracture in his left hamate bone. He will undergo surgery immediately and the stitches are expected to be removed after 10 days, at which point he can begin his progression towards baseball activities. The Mets believe Lindor can return within 6 weeks, in time for Opening Day on March 26 against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

  • Lindor will undergo surgery immediately.
  • The stitches in his hand will be removed after 10 days.
  • Lindor is expected to return to play within 6 weeks.

The players

Francisco Lindor

The Mets' star shortstop who is recovering from a stress fracture in his left hamate bone.

Carlos Mendoza

The Mets' manager who is optimistic Lindor will be ready by Opening Day.

Bo Bichette

The Mets' infielder who will focus on transitioning to third base this spring.

Vidal Brujan

A middle infielder in the Mets' camp who could see increased playing time if Lindor is not ready for Opening Day.

Ronny Mauricio

A middle infielder in the Mets' camp who could see increased playing time if Lindor is not ready for Opening Day.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“People are saying six weeks for return to play. Knowing Lindor, I'm not going to bet against him.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

“If Lindor is healthy and ready to go, it's going to be Lindor, Soto and Bichette [at the top of the order]. I've got good choices there. I can play around with lefty-righty, or lefty-lefty if we need to load against righties. I feel good with the options that we've got here.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

What’s next

The Mets will monitor Lindor's recovery and progression towards baseball activities over the next 6 weeks leading up to Opening Day.

The takeaway

Lindor's injury is a setback for the Mets, but the team remains optimistic he can return in time for the start of the season. The Mets have depth in the infield and feel they can compensate if Lindor needs additional time to fully recover.