The New York Mets boast one of the most formidable infields in Major League Baseball, anchored by superstar shortstop Francisco Lindor. Since arriving in Queens before the 2021 season via trade from the Cleveland Guardians, Lindor has delivered exactly what the organization hoped for.
After signing a massive 10-year, $341 million contract extension, Lindor has consistently rewarded the Mets, earning four top-10 National League MVP finishes, one All-Star selection, and two Silver Slugger awards over the past five seasons.
Not only is he a defensive standout at shortstop, but Lindor is also a major threat on the basepaths, firmly establishing himself as one of the league’s most complete players.
This offseason, the Mets focused on reshaping their roster around Lindor, who spent the winter recovering from surgery. The 32-year-old underwent right elbow surgery in October to address lingering soreness, a procedure that ended up shaping much of his offseason plans.
Lindor has long taken pride in representing Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic, and he had hoped to play for the third time in March. Unfortunately, insurance rules prevented him from participating this year. He wasn’t alone—fellow Puerto Rico stars Carlos Correa and Javier Báez were also denied clearance.
The situation even sparked questions about whether Puerto Rico would compete without its top players. Despite the uncertainty, the team left roster spots open for Lindor, Correa, and Báez in hopes of securing approval. Ultimately, Lindor did not receive clearance and will sit out the 2026 WBC.
Instead, he’s expected to report to Mets spring training fully healthy, ready to continue his run as one of MLB’s elite shortstops. Last season, Lindor hit .267 with a .346 on-base percentage, .811 OPS, 31 home runs, 86 RBIs, and 31 stolen bases over 160 games. The Mets will be counting on him to replicate that performance if they aim to return to the playoffs after missing out in 2025.