Francisco Lindor, the switch-hitting shortstop for the Mets, struggled when batting left-handed at the beginning of the season, with a batting average of just .111 over the first three weeks. However, he showed improvement over the weekend by going 5-for-9 with a home run against the Dodgers. Despite a hitless performance on Monday against the Giants, the Mets are pleased with Lindor’s recent progress batting left-handed, with manager Carlos Mendoza noting that Lindor is not missing pitches and is controlling the strike zone well.
In roster moves, Sean Reid-Foley was activated from the injured list and Josh Walker was recalled from Triple-A Syracuse to provide the Mets with a second lefty in the bullpen in place of the injured Brooks Raley. Both Reid-Foley and Walker pitched a scoreless inning in Monday’s game. To make room for these additions, Grant Hartwig was optioned, and Michael Tonkin was designated for assignment for the second time this season, as it was a necessary business decision despite Tonkin’s contributions.
Reid-Foley had been a bullpen candidate in spring training but was sidelined by a shoulder injury. Mendoza highlighted that Reid-Foley and Reed Garrett are effective against left-handed hitters, which is valuable with Raley out. Pitcher Kodai Senga, currently on the 60-day IL, is progressing in his rehab and will throw bullpen sessions before potentially facing hitters. Tylor Megill had a mixed bullpen session to simulate multiple innings as part of his recovery from a right shoulder strain.
Additionally, David Peterson, rehabbing from hip labrum surgery, is set to pitch in a simulated game this week. J.D. Martinez, who is slated to play for Triple-A Syracuse before joining the Mets, performed well in his recent games for Single-A St. Lucie. Despite facing challenges with injuries and roster changes, the Mets are dealing with the adjustments and focusing on getting key players back to full strength to improve their performance on the field.
The Mets are optimistic about Lindor’s progress batting left-handed, with Mendoza praising his ability to make good swings and control the strike zone. While roster moves involve difficult decisions, the team is prioritizing the well-being of their players and making changes to enhance their pitching staff’s effectiveness. With several players progressing in their rehab and aiming to return to the field soon, the Mets are focused on strengthening their roster and improving their overall performance as the season progresses. Martinez, an experienced DH, shows promise in his performances in the minor leagues and is expected to make a significant impact once he joins the Mets.
