Spring training has barely begun, yet troubling news has already surfaced for New York Mets supporters. As the Philadelphia Phillies prepare to open their training camp on Wednesday, the Mets kicked off their workouts in Port St. Lucie a day earlier with a concerning announcement — star shortstop Francisco Lindor may require surgery.
According to Mike Puma of the New York Post, Lindor is dealing with a stress reaction in the hamate bone of his left hand. Injuries involving the hamate bone often raise alarm because of their potential impact on hitters. Lindor is scheduled for further evaluation, and if surgery becomes necessary, he could face an estimated six-week recovery period.
Whether surgery is ultimately required or not, Lindor’s condition could influence the NL East race. FanGraphs projections currently place the Mets ahead of the Phillies in the division, but Lindor’s health situation could alter expectations as the season approaches.
Although hamate bone injuries are commonly believed to weaken hitters’ power, long-term performance declines after surgery have not been strongly supported by evidence. At present, the injury has been labeled a stress reaction rather than a fracture, with MLB.com’s Anthony DiComo reporting that Lindor only began experiencing discomfort within the last few days.
Still, hand and wrist injuries can significantly affect offensive production, something Phillies fans witnessed last season when Bryce Harper battled wrist problems.
Lindor is now the lone remaining member of the Mets’ former infield core after the team reshaped the other three positions during the offseason. Even if he returns near Opening Day following surgery, questions may remain about how quickly he can regain peak form. Slated to bat leadoff, any absence or reduced effectiveness from Lindor would likely weaken New York’s offense, particularly if he misses crucial preseason preparation time.
Over the past four seasons, Lindor has delivered consistent production, posting a .266 batting average, .812 OPS, and 128 wRC+. He has surpassed 30 home runs in each of the last three years while tallying 382 RBIs and 430 runs scored.
The five-time All-Star also proved troublesome for Philadelphia last season, hitting .296 with an .882 OPS, four home runs, 10 RBIs, and nine runs in 13 games against the Phillies.
Mets fans are now awaiting medical results with anxiety, while Phillies supporters are closely monitoring the situation as early spring training drama begins to unfold.
