New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor will undergo surgery to treat a stress reaction in the hamate bone of his left hand, manager Carlos Mendoza announced Wednesday after Lindor met with a hand specialist. Mendoza and president of baseball operations David Stearns said the expected recovery timeline is about six weeks, leaving open the possibility that Lindor could still be available for Opening Day, depending on how his rehabilitation progresses.
Stearns said Lindor recently experienced increased soreness in his left hand and wrist, an issue the shortstop has dealt with periodically over the past few years but usually managed without missing time. After the discomfort persisted, the club’s medical staff recommended further evaluation, which led to the decision for surgery. A similar procedure sidelined Mets catcher Francisco Alvarez for 46 days last season, a recovery window comparable to the current projection for Lindor.
The injury is the second medical issue for Lindor this offseason after he underwent a minor cleanup procedure on his right elbow following the 2025 season, which also kept him from participating with Puerto Rico in the upcoming World Baseball Classic. The four-time All-Star is coming off a strong 2025 campaign, batting .267 with 31 home runs, 86 RBs and 117 runs scored.
If Lindor is not ready for Opening Day, the Mets have several infielders with shortstop experience in camp, including Ronny Mauricio and Vidal Brujan, while recently acquired Bo Bichette is expected to remain primarily at third base.
Kyle leads sports coverage and hosts the Concrete Jungle podcast. Have a lead or question? Send it to [email protected].