Francisco Lindor’s recent performances have sparked concern within the New York Mets camp. The shortstop, a five-time All-Star, is experiencing a difficult start to the season, marked by both offensive struggles and defensive lapses. His errors have contributed to the team’s recent woes, leaving manager Carlos Mendoza searching for answers.
Defensive Errors Costly for New York
Lindor’s struggles were evident in the Mets’ 11-6 defeat to the Athletics. In the second inning, he failed to execute a routine double play, disrupting what should have been an inning-ending sequence. Lawrence Butler hit a ground ball to second baseman Marcus Semien, but instead of covering second base, Lindor went for the ball. Semien was forced to sprint to second base for one out while a run scored for the A’s.
Mendoza expressed his surprise at Lindor’s miscues. He said it’s weird because that’s not him. Mendoza added that Lindor will be the first to say he has to be better, but he’s never seen some of the plays Lindor has been making.
This error was one of several Lindor made over the weekend. The previous day, he was flat-footed on a potential double-play ball and was caught off third base on a ground ball. He also had two unforced errors against the St. Louis Cardinals on April 1, including losing track of the number of outs and getting picked off at first base.
Offensive Slump Adds to Pressure
Lindor’s struggles aren’t limited to the field. At the plate, Lindor is 10-for-60 with 10 walks, 13 strikeouts and an .546 OPS. He went 1-for-5 on Saturday, singling and scoring on Bo Bichette’s first home run with the Mets in the fifth inning. He struck out on three pitches in the first inning and in his final at-bat in the eighth inning.
Lindor acknowledged the pressure he faces. He said there’s always been pressure, and he’s always put a lot of pressure on himself because he expects a lot of himself.
Impact of Soto’s Absence
Lindor’s offensive struggles have been amplified by Juan Soto’s absence. Soto had a strong start to the season, going 11-for-31 with an .928 OPS in eight games. He suffered a left calf strain against the San Francisco Giants on April 3. The Mets are 3-4 in the seven games without him in the lineup.
Despite the errors, Mendoza maintains faith in Lindor. Mendoza said he’s the same guy, showing up, preparing, and working as hard as anybody.
Lindor, who is in the fifth year of a 10-year, $341 million contract extension, said he feels locked in and in the game, but has to be better.