MLB

Francisco Lindor brings calm to the NY Mets ahead of MLB Opening Day

Francisco Lindor, who is recovering from a recent surgery on one of his hands, hopes to be fully ready for a new MLB season with the New York Mets.

March 15, 2026 05:38PM EDT

**© Rich Storry/Getty Images**Francisco Lindor #12 of the New York Mets.

The New York Mets suffered a significant setback upon learning about Francisco Lindor’s hand surgery at the start of Spring Training. However, the player himself reassured the team and hopes to be available for Opening Day.

“I think everything is going in the right direction,” he said during a press conference via SNY. Additionally, he gave special thanks to his coaches who have been supporting him, and he hopes that everything stays on course.

Carlos Mendoza is expected to rely heavily on Lindor regarding the rotation, despite having a roster full of elite players who will also aim to take their team to the top, such as Bo Bichette, Juan Soto and Freddy Peralta.

Francisco Lindor’s recent injuries

Lindor‘s journey to the upcoming season has been defined by resilience after undergoing a surgical cleanup of his right elbow last October, followed by a mid-February procedure to repair a fractured hamate bone in his left hand. Despite these two setbacks, the NY Mets reportedly believe he will be ready for Opening Day.

Lindor’s first moves

Jorge Polanco has the NY Mets’ goal firmly in mind for the upcoming MLB season

Mendoza has elite alternatives

Fortunately for Mets fans, Carlos Mendoza has a versatile and high-caliber safety net to maintain the team’s momentum in case Francisco Lindor suffers any significant setback during the season.

The most seamless transition would involve shifting Bo Bichette back to his natural shortstop position, while the impressive spring performances of Ronny Mauricio and Luisangel Acuña provides New York with explosive young talent ready to fill the void at a moment’s notice.

When is the New York Mets’ season opener?

The New York Mets will officially kick off their 2026 regular season at home on Thursday, March 26. They are scheduled to host the Pittsburgh Pirates at Citi Field, with the first pitch set for 1:15 PM ET.

Matías Persuh

Matias Persuh is a sports journalist and writer who began his career after graduating with a bachelor's degree in Sports Journalism in 2008. Over the years, he has covered numerous events, including local soccer games, and has conducted interviews with players and coaches. In addition to his writing, Matias has contributed as a columnist on various radio shows. Joining Bolavip US in July 2024 marked a significant step forward in his career, allowing him to continue developing his skills and delivering resonant news and reports to the audience.