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Francisco Lindor Returns to Mets Lineup for Spring Debut After Hand Surgery

The Mets will use his first Grapefruit League reps to gauge his availability for Opening Day.

Overview

  • Lindor is leading off and playing shortstop against the Blue Jays on March 15 in his first game action since his Feb. 11 procedure.
  • The surgery addressed a stress reaction in his left hamate, with an initial recovery estimate of about six weeks.
  • New York has eight Grapefruit League games remaining before its March 26 home opener against the Pirates.
  • In recent days he advanced to live batting practice and took ground balls as part of his on-field progression.
  • After a 2025 season with a .267/.346/.466 line, 31 home runs and 31 steals, he is expected to shoulder more of the offense with Pete Alonso and Brandon Nimmo no longer on the roster.