Mets Star Lindor Undergoes Surgery, Likely to Miss Start of Season

Shortstop expected to return within six weeks, but power may be limited initially.

Feb. 12, 2026 at 11:39am

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New York Mets star shortstop Francisco Lindor will undergo surgery to repair a stress reaction in his left hamate bone. While he is expected to return within six weeks, experts warn that his power production may be limited for up to a month after coming back, mirroring a similar injury and recovery timeline for teammate Francisco Alvarez last season.

Why it matters

Lindor is the centerpiece of the Mets' lineup, and his absence could significantly impact the team's performance early in the season. The Mets are expected to contend for the playoffs, so Lindor's recovery timeline and ability to regain his power stroke will be crucial to their success.

The details

Lindor suffered a stress reaction in his left hamate bone, a small hook-shaped bone in the wrist that is susceptible to fracture from repetitive stress. Doctors say the surgery has a high success rate, but the recovery process can be challenging for power hitters, as the grip strength and vibration from the bat can take time to fully return. The Mets are hopeful Lindor will be ready for Opening Day, but caution that his power numbers may be suppressed for up to a month after he returns.

  • Lindor is expected to undergo surgery on February 15, 2026.
  • The Mets' Opening Day is scheduled for April 1, 2026 against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The players

Francisco Lindor

The star shortstop of the New York Mets, known for his power hitting and defensive prowess.

Francisco Alvarez

A Mets player who suffered a similar hamate bone injury in 2025 and struggled with his power production upon returning.

Carlos Mendoza

The manager of the New York Mets.

Deepak Chona, MD

An orthopedic specialist who provided medical insight on Lindor's injury and recovery timeline.

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What they’re saying

“The hamate is a bone of the wrist that has a small hook on it. The hook is a weak point, susceptible to fracture from either getting hit directly or from repetitive stress. In Lindor's case, it's a stress injury, which means it's likely been developing for some time from the repetitive motion of the bat against that portion of his hand.”

— Deepak Chona, MD, Orthopedic Specialist

“The amount of time varies, but generally projects to six weeks after returning.”

— Deepak Chona, MD, Orthopedic Specialist

What’s next

The Mets will monitor Lindor's recovery closely, and the team's medical staff will determine if he is ready to return for Opening Day or if he may need additional time to regain his full power and strength.

The takeaway

Lindor's injury is a significant concern for the Mets, as he is the centerpiece of their lineup and his absence could impact the team's early-season performance. While the surgery has a high success rate, the recovery process for power hitters can be challenging, and the Mets will need to temper expectations for Lindor's production upon his return to ensure he is fully healthy and ready to contribute at a high level.