As the New York Mets approach the conclusion of the 2023 MLB season, shortstop Francisco Lindor's future with the team has become a topic of discussion. Having spent nearly six years with the Mets, Lindor's tenure is now comparable to his time with the Cleveland Guardians, the team that drafted him.
Lindor's journey with the Mets began when he signed a monumental 10-year, $341 million contract following a trade from Cleveland before the 2021 season. This deal, which spans from 2022 to 2031, remains the largest contract ever awarded to a shortstop in Major League Baseball history.
However, Lindor's time in New York has not been without its challenges. His inaugural season with the Mets was marked by struggles, leading to significant criticism from fans. Nevertheless, he has shown improvement over the subsequent years, becoming a more reliable player.
In recent statements, Mets general manager David Stearns addressed rumors surrounding Lindor's potential trade. Despite speculation that the shortstop could be on the move, Stearns firmly stated that Lindor will continue to be the team's shortstop next season. This reassurance comes at a time when the Mets are looking to solidify their roster for the future.
This season, Lindor, now 32 years old, has faced some adversity on the field. After playing in at least 150 games each year from 2022 to 2025, he has missed a total of 57 games this season due to a significant left calf strain that sidelined him from late April to late June. His performance has also been inconsistent; he is currently slashing .231/.316/.424, with 15 home runs and 36 RBIs across 83 games.
Despite these struggles, Lindor's performance has improved since returning from the injured list. Before his injury, he had an OPS of just .669 in 105 plate appearances. However, since June 24, he has rebounded with a .768 OPS in 256 plate appearances, indicating a potential return to form.
Stearns' comments regarding Lindor's future are significant, especially considering the financial implications of his contract. With five years remaining on his deal after 2026 and a total of $170.5 million owed, including deferments, a trade would be complicated. Additionally, Lindor's performance has raised questions, as he has recorded -2 outs above average this season, a stark contrast to his usual elite defensive metrics.
While it remains to be seen whether Lindor is experiencing a decline or simply a rough patch, the obstacles to a trade are substantial. Lindor has expressed his commitment to the Mets in the past and possesses a full no-trade clause, further solidifying his position with the team.
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