Mets Provide Update on Francisco Lindor's Injury Recovery

Manager Carlos Mendoza says Lindor's return is still uncertain despite progress.

Mar. 2, 2026 at 3:23pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza provided an update on the recovery of star shortstop Francisco Lindor, who underwent a procedure in February for a stress reaction in his left hamate bone. Mendoza said it's still too early to determine when Lindor will be able to return, noting that Lindor has a history of playing through injuries and may surprise the team by coming back sooner than expected. However, the manager acknowledged that Lindor's full recovery and strengthening will take time, and the team may shift other infielders to shortstop until Lindor is fully cleared to play.

Why it matters

Lindor is a key player for the Mets, having led the team in several offensive categories last season. His absence could significantly impact the team's performance early in the season, so the Mets are taking a cautious approach to ensure he is fully healthy before returning to the lineup.

The details

Lindor had stitches removed from his hand last week, indicating progress in his recovery. However, Mendoza said Lindor is still in the strengthening phase of his rehabilitation and has not yet started hitting or fielding. The manager noted that Lindor may surprise the team by returning sooner than expected, as he has a history of playing through discomfort, but the team will prioritize his full recovery over rushing him back.

  • Lindor underwent a procedure in February for a stress reaction in his left hamate bone.
  • Lindor had stitches removed from his hand last week, indicating progress in his recovery.
  • The Mets open the regular season on March 26 against the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The players

Francisco Lindor

The Mets' star shortstop who led the team in several offensive categories last season.

Carlos Mendoza

The manager of the New York Mets.

Bo Bichette

The Mets' new third baseman who may shift to shortstop until Lindor returns.

Marcus Semien

The Mets' new second baseman who may shift to shortstop until Lindor returns.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I think we're still too early. It's hard to tell right now, especially knowing Lindor. This is a guy that I wouldn't be surprised [if] he comes in a week before we have to break and, 'Hey, I'm ready to go.'”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

“Just the strengthening part. Doing a lot of one-hand swings. Hopefully, in the next few days, he can start just grabbing a bat and start his progression hitting-wise, and then the fielding as well. The throwing has been there. He's continuing to do long toss, throw the bases. The conditioning is there. So, yeah, he's progressing accordingly.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

What’s next

The Mets will continue to monitor Lindor's progress and may shift other infielders to shortstop until he is fully cleared to return to the lineup.

The takeaway

The Mets are taking a cautious approach with Lindor's recovery, prioritizing his full health over rushing him back too soon. While Lindor's return date remains uncertain, the team's depth in the infield should help them weather his absence early in the season.