Mets’ Francisco Lindor knows he has to return as ‘plus player’ after uncharacteristic season

Francisco Lindor, the star shortstop for the Mets, has had a peculiar season filled with injuries, which have resulted in his worst statistical performance in his 12-year career. During the off-season, Lindor underwent a procedure to address tissue issues in his elbow. He missed the majority of spring training after arriving with a broken hamate bone and was sidelined for two months due to a calf injury just weeks into the season.

Since returning from the injured list, Lindor has shown occasional glimpses of his former All-Star form, but struggles persist at the plate, in the field, and on the bases. With only two games remaining in the season, the 32-year-old has posted a career-worst .731 OPS, committed a career-high 11 errors at shortstop, and ranks 41st percentile according to Statcast in terms of overall aging adjustment (-1).

While some attribute his struggles to a slow start and injuries, the numerous mental errors both defensively and offensively have been puzzling. Regardless of the cause, Lindor acknowledges that he must return to being a plus-player at shortstop, both defensively and offensively, if the Mets aim to turn their season around. The team possesses numerous promising talents, but the health and leadership of stars like Lindor and Juan Soto are crucial for success in the upcoming season.