New York Mets star Francisco Lindor has insisted he feels “very optimistic” about being fit for Opening Day, despite undergoing surgery last week on his left hand.
The All-Star shortstop is expected to spend around six weeks recovering, but he has already returned to the Mets’ spring training base to stay involved with the team.
The update matters because Lindor remains one of the Mets’ most influential players, and any delay to his return could affect the club’s early-season form.
What injury did Francisco Lindor suffer?
Francisco Lindor recently suffered a fracture to the hamate bone in his left hand, a small bone located near the palm that plays a major role in grip strength.
This type of injury is especially disruptive for baseball players because batting and throwing depend heavily on hand stability. Even a minor issue can impact swing timing and power.
The Mets decided surgery offered the best long-term solution rather than allowing the injury to worsen through continued training.
How long will Francisco Lindor be out?
The Mets have placed Lindor’s expected recovery at roughly six weeks, meaning he is likely to miss most of the spring training build-up.
That timeline leaves little room for error, as Lindor will need to rebuild full strength and sharpness quickly before competitive matches begin.
Even if he returns on schedule, he may still require careful management in the opening weeks of the season.
Why did Lindor return to camp even though he cannot train fully?
Despite being unable to join full workouts, Lindor turned up early at the Mets’ training camp to connect with teammates and settle into the club’s new environment.
He explained that he wanted to build chemistry with the players who have recently joined the squad, rather than watching preparations from a distance.
Lindor said, “We have a lot of new faces that I want to get to know, and I wanted to interact with them.”
He also admitted the situation has been difficult mentally, as he wants to train but must remain patient during recovery.
Will Francisco Lindor be ready for Mets Opening Day?
Lindor made it clear he believes he can still make the season opener. He said: “I’m very optimistic. My goal is to be there.”
While optimism is not the same as certainty, the player’s confidence will encourage Mets fans, especially as the club prepares for a fresh campaign after an inconsistent previous season.
Hamate bone surgery usually has a strong recovery outlook, but players sometimes need extra time to regain full batting comfort. That makes Lindor’s rehab progress a key storyline heading into March.
What caused the problem in the first place?
Lindor revealed he had experienced discomfort in the hand “over the years,” but after a recent full workout, he realised something was wrong.
That warning sign led to medical checks and eventually surgery.
The decision suggests the injury may have become serious enough that continuing without treatment would have risked long-term damage or reduced performance.
How does Lindor’s absence affect the Mets right now?
Lindor’s injury comes at a time when the Mets are reshaping their squad and trying to reset their identity. Spring training normally plays a major role in helping players develop rhythm, settle into roles, and build leadership structure.
With Lindor unable to take part fully, the Mets may need to:
- rotate shortstop options during warm-up games
- adjust their batting order plans
- Reduce pressure on Lindor when he returns
- Prepare backup solutions for the first weeks of the season
Even short-term injuries can create early instability in professional sport, especially for a player as central as Lindor.
Why are Mets fans watching this so closely?
Francisco Lindor is more than just a starter; he is widely seen as a key leader in the Mets clubhouse and one of the club’s most reliable performers.
If he misses Opening Day, the Mets could begin the season without:
- their main defensive organiser in the infield
- a major run producer in the batting lineup
- one of their most experienced voices
That could put extra responsibility on the rest of the squad at a time when new players are still adjusting.
