Mets Dealt More Bad News Amid Francisco Lindor Injury Absence

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Gavin Groe | Last updated Feb 27, 2026 6:13 PM ET

The New York Mets have high expectations this year following an active winter reshaping the 40‑man roster. The front office moved on from several familiar faces in an effort to build a team capable of returning to the MLB postseason.

Even with all the turnover, the Mets already had two franchise pillars in place before the offseason began: outfielder Juan Soto and shortstop Francisco Lindor, both secured long-term.

Lindor still has six years remaining on his 10‑year, $341 million extension, a deal he signed two months after being traded to Queens from the Cleveland Guardians. His individual accomplishments explains the investment.

Lindor is a two‑time Gold Glove winner, Platinum Glove recipient, five‑time All‑Star and a four‑time Silver Slugger, impacting the game on both sides of the ball.

New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) © Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Unfortunately for New York, Lindor’s status for Opening Day remains uncertain. The 32‑year‑old underwent surgery earlier this month to repair a stress fracture in his left hamate bone.

He had his stitches removed earlier this week, and while his goal is still to be active for Opening Day, that is far from guaranteed. His return timeline remains fluid, and the Mets need contingency plans in case he misses extended time.

Because Lindor has played nearly every day during his five seasons in New York, the club has not invested heavily in a true backup shortstop, leaving the depth chart thin without him.

That depth took another hit Friday. Manager Carlos Mendoza told reporters that infielder Grae Kessinger suffered a left knee injury that “didn’t look too good,” according to Anthony DiComo, and he will undergo an MRI on Saturday.

Grae Kessinger, who would have been a candidate to replace Francisco Lindor if the latter can't be ready for Opening Day, suffered a left knee injury today that "didn't look too good," per Carlos Mendoza. He'll have an MRI tomorrow.
— Anthony DiComo (@AnthonyDiComo) February 27, 2026

Kessinger was one of the leading candidates to fill in at shortstop if Lindor is not ready. This is significant because another potential option, Vidal Brujan, who was claimed off waivers earlier this offseason, has also dealt with injury setbacks throughout camp.

The Mets suddenly find themselves without a clear replacement at a position where they can least afford uncertainty. Replacing Lindor’s production from last season, when he hit .267 with a .346 on‑base percentage, .811 OPS, 31 home runs and 31 steals, is impossible.

The task now is simply finding someone capable of holding down the position until he returns. With expectations high and the margin for error slim in the National League East, the Mets need clarity at shortstop with Opening Day just weeks away.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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