A historical 12-game losing streak snapped, Juan Soto returned, and things were suddenly turning around for the Mets. However, a trip around the bases sent another star to the injured list, instantly putting the Mets back in panic mode. Francisco Lindor rounded the bases after Francisco Alvarez rocketed a double into center field to put the Mets up 2-1 in the fourth inning. As Lindor rounded second, you could almost feel the grimacing look of pain on the face of Lindor, hobbling around third before reaching home, where he slid — remaining on the ground for a short period before heading to the tunnel with trainers.
The Mets’ star shortstop was instantly ruled out with calf tightness, the same injury that shelved Juan Soto, which put the Mets in a dark spot, going 3-12 without their best hitter. Today, the Mets announced that Lindor would be placed on the 10-day IL with a calf injury. For Lindor, things were finally starting to look positive, batting .316 over his last 10 games, with 12 hits, five RBIs, and two home runs. His positive production will now be placed on hold.
So…. Now what?
In response to Lindor hitting the IL, the Mets plan to call up versatile infielder Ronny Mauricio. Mauricio, the 25-year-old, was recalled on April 6 in response to Soto hitting the IL. During his short stint on the major league roster, Mauricio saw four at-bats, delivering a pinch-hit walk-off single in the Mets’ final win before their 12-game losing streak. On April 13, the Mets sent Mauricio back to Triple-A, calling up Tommy Pham to serve as some outfield depth with Soto still on the IL, and top prospect Carson Benge struggling to start the season.
Since then, however, Mauricio has been dominant at the plate, batting .315 and hitting five home runs with 10 RBIs. Adding Mauricio to the roster now gives the Mets options, as seen last night with Bo Bichette back at shortstop and Brett Baty at third base. The Mets should lean on Mauricio’s hot bat as they play spring baseball without their starting shortstop.
