Mets say Clay Holmes' Broken Leg Likely to Heal in Time for Late-Season Return The New York Mets confirmed on Friday night that pitcher Clay Holmes suffered a fractured right fibula during a game against the Yankees, with the injury occurring from a 111.1 mph comebacker hit by Yankees' Spencer Jones. The incident happened during the Mets' 5-2 loss, marking a significant setback for the team. Manager Carlos Mendoza expressed confidence that Holmes would be ready to return for the final two months of the season, emphasizing the importance of the pitcher to the club’s rotation and overall dynamics. Holmes’ injury, which was diagnosed after an MRI confirmed the initial X-ray findings, requires six to eight weeks of recovery. Mendoza noted that the pitcher will undergo a spring training-style ramp-up, typically lasting about six weeks, before rejoining the team. The manager also revealed that the injury was confirmed during the seventh inning of the game, when rookie A.J. Ewing was at the plate with two outs and runners at second and third. Mendoza described the moment as emotionally challenging, stating, “I was like: ‘Oh my gosh.’” The 33-year-old right-hander, who signed a $38 million, three-year deal with the Mets before the 2025 season, has been a key contributor to the team’s rotation. Shifted from the bullpen to the starting rotation, Holmes has posted a 12-8 record with a 3.53 ERA since joining the Mets. This season, he is 4-4 with a 2.39 ERA, despite the team’s struggles in the NL East. The Mets, who began the season with baseball’s highest payroll, are currently last in the division at 18-26. Holmes’ injury adds to a list of key players on the injured list (IL), including shortstop Francisco Lindor, catcher Francisco Alvarez, first baseman Jorge Polanco, center fielder Luis Robert Jr.#new_york_mets #francisco_lindor #spencer_jones #carlos_mendoza #clay_holmes
Mets seeking turnaround after slow start to season The New York Mets are grappling with a credibility crisis as they enter the second decade of the season with a 7-9 record, having lost five consecutive games. The team’s offensive struggles have been particularly glaring, with their lineup failing to generate consistent pressure at the plate. The situation has drawn sharp criticism, including a front-page headline in the New York Post that read, “GETTING LATE EARLY,” a reference to the Mets’ alarming pace of play. The frustration intensified after a 1-0 loss to the Oakland Athletics on Sunday, marking their fifth straight defeat at Citi Field. The loss came just days before a grueling cross-country trip to face the two-time defending World Series champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers, further complicating their path to a competitive season. Despite the early struggles, the Mets still have 146 games remaining in the season, and their roster remains one of the most talented in Major League Baseball. The team’s depth and star power—highlighted by players like Francisco Lindor and Juan Soto—should theoretically provide a strong foundation for success. However, the lack of results has raised questions about the team’s ability to translate potential into performance. Last year, the Mets faced similar challenges, losing their NL East lead and squandering a Wild Card berth on the final day of the season. The parallels have led fans to question whether the current season will follow the same troubling trajectory. President of baseball operations David Stearns and manager Carlos Mendoza have consistently emphasized patience, insisting that the team’s struggles are part of a longer-term plan.#new_york_mets #francisco_lindor #carlos_mendoza #new_york_post #david_stearns
Francisco Lindor's Defensive Lapses and Offensive Struggles Leave Mets in Peril NEW YORK -- Francisco Lindor, a five-time All-Star shortstop and two-time Gold Glove Award winner, has found himself in an unfamiliar position this season: struggling with uncharacteristic defensive errors that have compounded his offensive woes. The 32-year-old, entering his fifth year of a $341 million, 10-year contract extension, has become a focal point of concern for the New York Mets as his recent mistakes have disrupted the team’s momentum. With the Mets now 7-8 on the season, Lindor’s performance has raised questions about his ability to maintain the high standards expected of a player of his caliber. The latest episode unfolded during the Mets’ 11-6 loss to the Athletics on Saturday. In the second inning, Lindor’s defensive lapse allowed the A’s to score a run that proved pivotal in the game’s outcome. Lawrence Butler hit a ground ball to second baseman Marcus Semien, which should have initiated a 4-6-3 double play. Instead, Lindor, who has long been celebrated for his defensive prowess, made a play for the ball rather than retreating to second base to turn two. The decision forced Semien to sprint to second base for one out, while a run crossed the plate for the A’s. Mets manager Carlos Mendoza described the error as “weird” and “not him,” emphasizing that Lindor’s recent mistakes defy his usual composure. “It’s hard to explain. And he’ll be the first one. He’ll tell you he’s got to be better,” Mendoza said after the team’s fourth straight loss. Lindor’s defensive struggles were not isolated to Saturday. Over the past two days, he had already committed three similar errors. On Friday, during a potential inning-ending double-play situation, Lindor was flat-footed while making a turn at second base.#new_york_mets #francisco_lindor #carlos_mendoza #marcus_semien #lawrence_butler
Jeff McNeil Returns to Citi Field for First Time as a Member of the Opposition Jeff McNeil returned to Citi Field on Friday for the first time as a member of the opposition, marking a significant moment in his career as he played for the Oakland A’s against his former team, the New York Mets. The occasion allowed him to address lingering questions about his relationship with former teammate Francisco Lindor, who now plays for the Mets. McNeil dismissed reports of a heated confrontation between the two players, clarifying that their June 20, 2025, incident in Philadelphia was a minor argument rather than a fight. “We just had a little argument. It was no big deal,” he said, emphasizing that the incident had no bearing on the Mets’ decision to trade him in December 2025 for Minor League pitcher Yordan Rodriguez. McNeil also acknowledged that the reported altercation was not the first time he and Lindor had clashed. The two had a separate disagreement early in their 2021 season together with the Mets. Despite these tensions, McNeil expressed admiration for Lindor, calling him “a great guy, a good person” and “one of the best shortstops to ever do it.” He wished Lindor “all the best” in his career, reflecting on the positive memories of their time as teammates. “I enjoyed my time playing with him,” McNeil said, adding that he hoped their paths would cross again in the future. The Mets’ decision to trade McNeil in December 2025 came after a period of significant roster changes. Over three months, the team parted ways with key players including Brandon Nimmo, Pete Alonso, Edwin Díaz, and ultimately McNeil. Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns had previously reached out to McNeil in November 2025, following the trade of Nimmo to the Rangers, to discuss his potential role as an outfielder in 2026.#new_york_mets #francisco_lindor #david_stearns #jeff_mcneil #oakland_ats
New York Mets Star Makes Injury Admission Ahead of Opening Day The New York Mets are preparing for the 2026 season with high hopes after a disappointing finish to the previous campaign. The team made significant roster changes, spending nearly $250 million in the offseason and acquiring pitcher Freddy Peralta in a blockbuster trade to strengthen the rotation. With these upgrades, the Mets are expected to compete strongly in the National League East division. However, concerns about the health of shortstop Francisco Lindor persist. Lindor, a five-time All-Star, underwent hand surgery in mid-February to address a broken hamate bone. While he has participated in multiple spring training games, he has not yet reached full recovery. In an interview with Bleacher Report, Lindor acknowledged he is not 100% ready for the season. “Opening Day is still the plan,” he said, adding that he will not be at his peak but remains committed to playing. “Nobody is 100 percent when they depend on their body day in and day out.” Lindor’s spring training performance reflected his cautious approach. He recorded 19 at-bats, with three hits (.158 batting average), and demonstrated confidence in the field, posting a perfect 10 fielding chances, seven assists, and three putouts across five appearances. Despite these efforts, his limited playing time has raised questions about his readiness for the season. Lindor’s health is critical to the Mets’ success in 2026. ESPN’s Jeff Passan highlighted his importance, stating that the team’s playoff chances largely depend on his performance. Lindor’s 6.3 WAR in 2025 ranked among the top three shortstops in the National League, and he led the league in plate appearances and at-bats.#bleacher_report #new_york_mets #francisco_lindor #pittsburgh_pirates #freddy_peralta
Mets' Francisco Lindor: Ready to Roll for Opener Francisco Lindor is set to start at shortstop and bat leadoff in the New York Mets’ Opening Day game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Thursday. The shortstop, who underwent hamate bone surgery in late January, has been cleared to play after participating in five Grapefruit League games. Despite the potential for delayed power output following such a procedure, fantasy baseball managers are advised to include Lindor in their lineups for the opener. Lindor’s return to action comes just six weeks after his surgery, a timeline that has raised questions about his readiness. However, the Mets have confirmed his participation in the game, indicating that he has progressed sufficiently through recovery protocols. While his power numbers may take time to fully rebound, his defensive skills and overall impact at the plate make him a valuable asset for fantasy teams. The Mets’ decision to activate Lindor for the opener reflects confidence in his ability to contribute immediately. His presence at shortstop will bolster the team’s infield defense, and his leadoff batting role positions him to set the tone for the offense. Lindor’s return also provides a psychological boost to the team, as his leadership and experience can elevate the performance of his teammates. Fantasy analysts have noted that Lindor’s recovery trajectory is a key factor in his readiness. While some players may experience a temporary dip in power after hand surgery, Lindor’s ability to adapt and perform in the field remains intact. His participation in Grapefruit League games has allowed him to regain his rhythm, and the Mets’ medical staff has deemed him fit to compete at the major league level.#new_york_mets #francisco_lindor #pittsburgh_pirates #grapefruit_league #opening_day_game
How many future Hall of Famers are playing in the 2026 WBC? The 2026 World Baseball Classic will feature a star-studded lineup of players who are already being discussed as potential Hall of Fame inductees. While some iconic names from past tournaments are absent, the competition includes a mix of current legends and rising stars. The event will serve as a stage for players who have already made their mark in the sport and are now poised to join baseball’s most revered ranks. Among the notable absences are Freddie Freeman, who opted out of the tournament after previously representing Canada, and Francisco Lindor and Carlos Correa, who were unable to secure injury insurance. Lindor’s injury to his hamate bone further complicated Puerto Rico’s roster, leaving a gap in their lineup. Meanwhile, the United States team has added exciting first-time participants like Aaron Judge and Bryce Harper, both of whom are already being considered for Cooperstown. The tournament will see several players who are already on the short list for the Hall of Fame. These athletes are categorized into tiers based on their likelihood of induction, with Tier 1 players being the most certain to be enshrined. Clayton Kershaw, now retired from the Los Angeles Dodgers, will make his WBC debut, though his role is expected to be ceremonial. Shohei Ohtani, though not yet eligible for the Hall of Fame, is a lock due to his historic achievements, including four MVP Awards. Aaron Judge, the New York Yankees’ star, is already being discussed as a future Hall of Famer. Despite starting his career later and facing injuries, his high WAR numbers and consistent performance have solidified his place among the elite. Manny Machado, representing the Dominican Republic, has accumulated over 61.#world_baseball_classic #freddie_freeman #francisco_lindor #carlos_correa #clayton_kershaw
