Francisco Lindor’s Injury Puts New York Mets on High Alert

The New York Mets, currently battling for the National League wild card, have been dealt a significant blow. Francisco Lindor, their star shortstop and leadoff hitter, has been forced to leave a game due to back pain.

Lindor started as the Mets’ first batter and shortstop in their away game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. However, he was replaced by Luis Angel Acuña before the second inning and left the game.

According to Sportsnet New York, Lindor felt discomfort in his back while heading to first base after hitting a single in the first inning. He is scheduled to undergo an MRI on the 17th to determine the severity of the injury.

This injury is a significant concern for the New York Mets, as Lindor is considered Shohei Ohtani’s only rival in the National League MVP race. Lindor leads the Mets’ batting lineup and has been instrumental in their wild card battle.

Lindor’s impressive stats this season include a batting average of 0.271, 31 home runs, 86 RBIs, 103 runs, 163 hits, an on-base percentage of 0.342, and an OPS of 0.836 in 148 games. His injury may put the Mets at a disadvantage in their upcoming games, particularly in their three-game road trip to Atlanta from the 25th to the 27th.

Lindor’s injury also means that Ohtani is now a 100% certainty to win the MVP award. Even before Lindor’s injury, Ohtani’s MVP odds were close to 99%. The New York Mets will be hoping that Lindor’s injury is not serious and that he can return to the lineup soon.