New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor is undergoing evaluation for a possible stress fracture in the hamate bone of his left hand, team president of baseball operations David Stearns said Tuesday, raising the possibility of surgery that could sideline him for about six weeks. Despite that timeline, the club remains hopeful Lindor would still be available for Opening Day if a procedure becomes necessary.
Lindor recently reported soreness in the left hand and wrist area, prompting the Mets’ medical staff to conduct further examinations and refer him to a specialist. According to Stearns, the discomfort is not entirely new; the veteran infielder has dealt with similar soreness periodically over the past several years but typically continued playing through it. The current persistence of symptoms led Lindor to alert team officials for additional evaluation.
The latest concern comes after Lindor underwent a minor surgical procedure on his right elbow shortly after the 2025 season. That recovery contributed to him not receiving insurance clearance to participate for Puerto Rico in the upcoming World Baseball Classic, a decision handled through Major League Baseball and the players’ union rather than the Mets.
Lindor remains a central figure in New York’s lineup after earning All-Star honors last season, when he hit .267 with a .346 on-base percentage, 31 home runs and 86 RBI.
If he is forced to miss time, the Mets could turn to Ronny Mauricio or Vidal Bruján to help fill the shortstop role temporarily.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].