Mets Star Lindor Returns Strong After Wrist Surgery

Francisco Lindor stood at the plate Sunday and launched a foul ball 391 feet, just four weeks after a surgeon removed a bone from his left wrist.

The New York Mets shortstop made his spring training debut against the Toronto Blue Jays, diving for grounders and ripping a 105 mph single into right field. He played four innings, went 1-for-3 at the plate, and walked off the field healthy.

"I felt like I was pretty much like myself," Lindor said after the game. "I finished the game healthy. Overall, it was a good day for me."

Lindor underwent surgery on February 11 to remove his hamate bone after experiencing persistent wrist soreness at the start of spring training. The procedure came with a six-week recovery timeline, putting his Opening Day availability in serious doubt.

But the 32-year-old star has progressed faster than expected. He started with defensive drills, moved to full batting practice, and appeared in three minor league games before Sunday's debut.

Manager Carlos Mendoza said the team saw no hesitation in Lindor's movements. "We just let him loose," Mendoza explained. "Watching him on the back fields, I think he looked like Francisco Lindor."

The surgical site still feels different when Lindor swings and fields. Doctors warned him the sensation could last eight weeks, though some players have told him it might linger for years. Lindor knows those feelings are part of the healing process.

The Bright Side

Lindor's quick return carries extra significance for the Mets and their fans. The four-time All-Star has been remarkably durable despite various injuries, missing just 15 games since 2022.

Last season, he produced 31 home runs and 31 stolen bases, becoming one of baseball's elite players. His presence at shortstop on Opening Day would give the Mets their full roster for their season opener against the Pirates on March 26.

The team plans to gradually increase his workload over the next 11 days. Lindor will play Tuesday and Thursday, then potentially back-to-back games by late next week. President of baseball operations David Stearns had called a spring training appearance a "prerequisite" for Opening Day, and Lindor just checked that box.

"There's going to be ups and downs," Lindor acknowledged about his recovery. "Today was a good day. Hopefully, I can come back tomorrow and feel even better, and we'll go from there."

His successful debut shows that setbacks don't have to derail a season before it even starts.