Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor sat out his eighth consecutive game due to back pain on Tuesday night but was prepared to pinch hit when New York made their final out in a 5-1 loss to the Atlanta Braves.
Manager Carlos Mendoza indicated that Lindor “could be in play” for Wednesday, although heavy rain is forecasted.
Ahead of an important three-game series, Lindor spoke to reporters while wearing a heat wrap on his back. He mentioned he would work out before the game to assess his readiness to come off the bench.
A bone scan on Monday revealed no structural damage to his back, leading Lindor to believe there was minimal risk of further injury if he attempted to play.
“He’s going to push it again and let me know if he’s available today or not,” Mendoza said before the game. “That was the case on Sunday, and after his workout, he felt he wasn’t quite there yet.”
Lindor has only played one inning in the past 10 games. Despite his absence, the Mets went 6-1 during their recent homestand and currently occupy one of three National League wild card spots, with five games left in a tight race alongside San Diego, Arizona, and Atlanta.
Lindor expressed willingness to return as a designated hitter if the team deems it the best option, noting he needs to ensure that any pain experienced during play is temporary.
“It’s important that the pain comes and goes,” Lindor said. “Before, when I hit the ball and started running, it wouldn’t ease up. I can’t have that constant pain; it would hinder my performance.”
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