Francisco Lindor Returns to Mets Lineup Ahead of Opening Day

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Francisco Lindor, the All-Star shortstop for the New York Mets, has returned to the team's lineup for Sunday's spring training game against the Toronto Blue Jays. Lindor had been rehabbing from left hamate bone surgery over the past month and had recently progressed to batting against live pitching. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza said the team is getting to the point where it's time for Lindor to start playing games with the team again ahead of the March 26 season opener.

Why it matters

Lindor's return to the lineup is a massive boost for the Mets as they prepare for the upcoming season. As one of the team's key offensive threats, his presence in the lineup will provide a significant lift as the Mets look to build on their success from last year.

The details

Lindor was penciled into the Mets' lineup for Sunday's game against the Blue Jays, his first Grapefruit League start of the spring. The plan was for him to play four innings and receive two at-bats. He will likely have Monday off and then resume Grapefruit League action on Tuesday. Mendoza said there wasn't a firm timetable for Lindor to begin playing games, but the team saw him progressing well both defensively and offensively in recent days.

• Lindor has spent the last month rehabbing from left hamate bone surgery.
• Lindor recently progressed to batting against live pitching in recent days.
• The Mets have spring training games running through next weekend, ahead of the March 26 opener against the Pirates at Citi Field.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Lindor will likely have Monday off and then resume Grapefruit League action on Tuesday. The Mets have spring training games running through next weekend, ahead of the March 26 opener against the Pirates at Citi Field.