As March begins, Francisco Lindor remains hopeful about returning to the New York Mets lineup by Opening Day, even though he has missed all spring training activities so far. His determination to make a comeback is evident as he continues his recovery from surgery on his right hamate bone, an injury that has sidelined him for several weeks.
Injury Details and Recovery Progress Announced
Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns confirmed before spring training that Lindor’s hamate bone fracture required surgical repair, which would keep the star shortstop away from baseball for at least six to eight weeks. Manager Carlos Mendoza provided further insight before a recent exhibition game against the Houston Astros. Mendoza revealed that Lindor has been practicing one-handed swings and hopes that within the next few days, if his hand gains sufficient strength, Lindor may begin progressing towards full hitting and fielding exercises.
Lindor’s Perspective on His Rehabilitation Journey
Although Lindor has not publicly shared a detailed rehabilitation timeline, he expressed to Dan Martin of the New York Post that he is currently in a positive state, focusing on building strength daily. While Opening Day remains his goal, Lindor admitted that it is still too early to guarantee his availability for the season opener.
Francisco Lindor ‘still optimistic’ about his Mets Opening Day status as he waits for key recovery step https://t.co/2UJqHDQzc5 pic.twitter.com/33RlA5tjta
?@nypostsports
Lindor’s Consistent Performance and Mets Infield Depth
Since joining the Mets in January 2021, Lindor has maintained strong durability, missing only 52 games over five seasons, including just two last year. Coming off an impressive 2025 season, he posted a .267 batting average with a .346 on-base percentage and .466 slugging percentage. His 31 home runs, 86 RBIs, .812 OPS, and 31 stolen bases made him a key player for the Mets.
Should Lindor not be ready by Opening Day, the Mets face additional challenges as infielder Grae Kessinger is sidelined with a significant left knee injury, expected to keep him out for eight to twelve weeks, and surgery remains a possibility. Nevertheless, Mendoza expressed confidence in other potential infield candidates such as Vidal Bruján and Ronny Mauricio, who could fill roles if needed.
Lindor’s Confidence Amid Uncertain Roster Situation
Despite concerns about the shortstop position, Lindor conveyed reassurance about the Mets’ overall readiness to handle any lineup gaps. When asked about the possibility of the team missing his contribution at Opening Day, Lindor stated,
We are going to be fine.
?Francisco Lindor
Looking Ahead for Lindor and the Mets
Francisco Lindor’s optimism and steady rehabilitation progress offer hope that he might rejoin the Mets when the regular season begins, bolstering a team eager to leverage his skillset. While the recovery remains fluid, the Mets’ attention to depth amid injuries could shape their roster strategies in the early weeks of the season. Fans and management alike will closely monitor Lindor’s health in the coming days as Opening Day approaches.
Francisco Lindor 'still optimistic' about his Mets Opening Day status as he waits for key recovery step https://t.co/2UJqHDQzc5 pic.twitter.com/33RlA5tjta
— New York Post Sports (@nypostsports) March 1, 2026
Carlos Mendoza provides the latest updates on Francisco Lindor's progression as he looks to return from hand surgery pic.twitter.com/okkOcTSSeP
— SNY (@SNYtv) March 1, 2026
