PHILADELPHIA — Francisco Lindor’s lower back pain prevented him from playing in the Mets’ season opener on Saturday, which halted the possibility of him participating in all 162 games this year.
“That was never my aim,” Lindor remarked after the Mets fell to the Phillies 6-4 at Citizens Bank Park. “My focus is on being available every single day. … I hope to compete in the remaining 14 games this season.”
The only player in Mets history to participate in every regular-season game is Felix Millan, who accomplished this feat in 1975. John Olerud played 162 games for the Mets in 1999, but that year included a 163rd game due to a tiebreaker against the Reds.
Pete Alonso still has the opportunity to play in all 162 games for the Mets this season.
<img style="aspect-ratio:1.4796610169492;display:block" decoding="async" fetchpriority="high" data-modal-image="33335338" width="873" height="590" src="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?w=1024" alt="Francisco Lindor missed his first game of the season in the Mets' 6-4 loss to the Phillies on Sept. 14, 2024." class="wp-image-33335338" srcset="https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?quality=75&strip=all 2730w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?resize=300,203&quality=75&strip=all 300w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?resize=768,519&quality=75&strip=all 768w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?resize=1024,692&quality=75&strip=all 1024w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?resize=1536,1038&quality=75&strip=all 1536w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?resize=2048,1383&quality=75&strip=all 2048w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?resize=872,589&quality=75&strip=all 872w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?resize=734,496&quality=75&strip=all 734w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?resize=576,389&quality=75&strip=all 576w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?resize=440,297&quality=75&strip=all 440w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?resize=417,282&quality=75&strip=all 417w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?resize=180,122&quality=75&strip=all 180w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?resize=160,107&quality=75&strip=all 160w, https://nypost.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/09/Francisco-Lindor-2.jpg?resize=
Francisco Lindor missed his first game of the season during the Mets’ 6-4 defeat to the Phillies on September 14, 2024. AP
On Friday, Lindor left the game in the seventh inning after he “jammed” his back while running past second base on a double without sliding. David Stearns, president of baseball operations for the Mets, described Lindor’s injury as a muscular “tweak.”
On Saturday, the Mets recalled Luisangel Acuna from Triple-A Syracuse, providing the 22-year-old infielder/outfielder with his first major league start in place of Lindor.
Acuna performed well, going 2-for-4 with two singles.
“He looks very relaxed,” remarked Lindor. “He maintained the same demeanor throughout spring training and since I have known him. I believe that’s who he is going to be. He stayed even-keeled today, looking fantastic and understanding when to be patient and when to show aggression.”
Manager Carlos Mendoza mentioned that Lindor attempted to negotiate his way back into the lineup, but ultimately, it was determined that exercising caution with the team’s best player was prudent.
“He wants to play,” Mendoza stated. “However, he is aware that I don’t want to put him in a situation where he might overcompensate, potentially leading to further issues. I thought it was best for him to at least rest for the initial innings of the game, and then we’ll evaluate moving forward.”
what happens.
Francisco Lindor Sits Out First Game of Season Due to Back Injury, Ending Streak Potential
The Impact of Francisco Lindor’s Absence
Francisco Lindor, the talented shortstop for the New York Mets, made headlines recently by sitting out his first game of the season due to a lingering back injury. This decision has sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike, particularly regarding the implications for his performance and the team’s dynamics.
Understanding Lindor’s Back Injury
Back injuries can vary significantly in terms of severity and impact on performance. Lindor’s back issue is being monitored closely by the Mets’ medical staff. Here’s a quick overview of common back injuries in athletes:
- Strains: Often caused by overexertion, leading to muscle tears.
- Sprains: Ligament injuries that can result from sudden twists or falls.
- Herniated Discs: Discs in the spine can bulge or rupture, pressing on nerves.
- Degenerative Disc Disease: Age-related wear and tear on spinal discs.
Streak Potential and Team Dynamics
Before his injury, Lindor was expected to be a key player for the Mets in the 2023 season. His absence raises questions about the team’s performance and lineup strategy. Let’s delve into what missing games may mean for Lindor and the Mets.
Potential Impact on Streaks
Streaks in baseball can be pivotal. Whether it’s a hitting streak or consecutive games played, these stats can influence a player’s confidence and contract negotiations.
| Type of Streak | Details |
|---|---|
| Games Played Streak | Lindor was on track for a significant consecutive games played streak. |
| Hitting Streak | His batting consistency could have led to a hitting streak, boosting morale. |
Benefits of Resting a Player
While it’s unfortunate that Lindor had to miss a game, there are benefits to allowing him to rest:
- Prevention of Further Injury: Resting can help avoid aggravating the back injury.
- Long-term Health: Ensuring players are healthy aids in their overall career longevity.
- Team Readiness: With Lindor healthy, the Mets can optimize their lineup when he returns.
Alternative Players Filling In
With Lindor sidelined, the Mets’ coaching staff need to make strategic decisions regarding the lineup. Here are some players who could step into the shortstop position:
| Player | Strengths |
|---|---|
| Luis Guillorme | Excellent defensive skills and a reliable bat. |
| Eduardo Escobar | Experience and versatility, capable of playing multiple positions. |
| Ronny Mauricio | Young prospect with great potential; can provide energy to the lineup. |
Case Studies: Players Who Overcame Back Injuries
Back injuries have plagued many athletes, yet several have successfully returned to form. Here are notable examples:
- Derek Jeter: Faced back issues but returned to lead the Yankees to success.
- David Wright: Battled back pain throughout his career; his leadership remains influential.
- Jason Kipnis: Came back strong from back spasms, proving resilience is key.
First-Hand Experience: Dealing with Back Injuries
Many athletes share their journeys with back injuries, emphasizing the importance of a strong support system. Here’s a summary of advice from players who faced similar challenges:
- Listen to Your Body: Knowing when to push through and when to rest is crucial.
- Implement Rehabilitation: Physical therapy can significantly aid recovery.
- Strength Training: Core strengthening exercises can help prevent future injuries.
The Importance of Medical Staff
The role of the medical team in managing player injuries cannot be overstated. Here’s what they typically do:
- Diagnosis: Assess the nature and extent of the injury through physical exams and imaging.
- Rehabilitation Plans: Develop tailored recovery protocols to expedite healing.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Regular check-ups ensure the player is on track to return.
Recovery Timeline for Back Injuries
Recovery from a back injury can vary based on the type and severity of the issue. Here’s a general timeline:
| Injury Type | Recovery Time |
|---|---|
| Muscle Strain | 1-2 weeks |
| Ligament Sprain | 2-4 weeks |
| Herniated Disc | 4-12 weeks |
Keeping Fans Engaged During Injuries
When a star player like Lindor sits out, fan engagement becomes vital. Here are strategies the Mets can employ:
- Social Media Updates: Regular updates on Lindor’s condition can keep fans informed.
- Interactive Content: Polls and quizzes about the team can help maintain interest.
- Community Events: Organizing events that involve fans can foster loyalty.
What’s Next for Lindor and the Mets?
As the Mets navigate the early season without Francisco Lindor, they’ll need to adapt quickly. The focus will be on recovery and ensuring that when he returns, he’s fit to play at his best. Fans are hopeful that Lindor’s absence will be brief, and that he will soon be back to contribute to the team’s success.
