New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor’s broken hamate bone was an ominous beginning to spring training this year. However, it’s possible the five-time All-Star got his injury out of the way at the right time.
On Feb. 11, Lindor underwent surgery for a broken hamate bone in his right hand. That injury typically carries a six-week recovery timeline, putting Lindor right up against the March 26 season opener between the Mets and Pittsburgh Pirates.
Lindor was able to swing a bat for the first time on Wednesday since undergoing surgery, a major step in his recovery process. And on Thursday, he had a bold prediction to share about his availability for that opening day game against Pittsburgh.
“One hundred percent, I think I can make it for opening day,” Lindor told Jon Heyman of the New York Post. “We’re checking the boxes along the way.”
Lindor also played catch for the first time since the surgery earlier this week. He still needs to be able to field ground balls, slide, and hit against live pitching, but with nearly three weeks to go before the opener, he clearly feels as though a full season of games is within reach.
Hamate injuries are a one-time thing for most players, as the hook-shaped bone that resides near the wrist simply gets surgically removed when it’s broken. Lindor is a switch-hitter, though, so he still has his right hamate bone intact.
The Mets would have to be thrilled if Lindor can return for opening day, or even if he only misses a series or two. After the brutal disappointment of last season’s regular-season collapse and a transformational offseason for the roster, it will be essential to have their de facto captain on the field as early as possible.
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