Mets fans get more good news about status of injured star Francisco Lindor

New York Mets fans were delighted to recently learn that star shortstop Francisco Lindor had progressed to playing defense in minor-league games as part of his recovery from the procedure he needed in February for a stress reaction to his left hamate bone.

While speaking with media members on Thursday, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza offered an update on Lindor's status. 

Is Francisco Lindor close to being a full participant?

Per Alex Smith of SNY, Mendoza shared that Lindor took batting practice in the cages two days ago. However, Mendoza was sure to note that Lindor will be relegated to just defensive duties in minor-league contests "for now." 

"Playing innings on defense, and then the hitting is coming along as well," Mendoza explained about the club's handling of Lindor. "Four or five innings today, and then I think it’s day-to-day."

As Anthony DiComo of the MLB website shared this past Tuesday, Lindor remains "100 percent optimistic" that he will be able to play on Opening Day. The Mets begin their season with a home game against the Pittsburgh Pirates on March 26.

It remains unclear who would start for the Mets at shortstop if Lindor isn't available until some point in April. New third baseman Bo Bichette and new second baseman Marcus Semien are among Mendoza's options, but it's worth noting that Semien ended Wednesday hitting .190 in the Grapefruit League this spring. 

Is Francisco Lindor ahead of schedule for recovery?

"He's getting close," Mendoza added about Lindor potentially returning to swinging a bat in-game. Mendoza was also asked if Lindor is recovering faster than the team expected back in February. 

"No," Mendoza responded. "From the beginning, doctors told us 'four to six weeks.' Yesterday, I think, we hit the four-week mark. ...So, he's right on schedule. I'm not surprised by it." 

Lindor's history of playing through discomfort suggests he will do everything possible to be in the lineup on the final Thursday of March. That said, Mendoza and Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns could try to convince Lindor not to push himself before he's back to 100 percent.