Mets Spring Training Update: Francisco Lindor Availability Still Early to Judge; Kodai Senga Likely to Pitch vs. Cardinals

Carlos Mendoza has provided updates on Francisco Lindor and Kodai Senga following the New York Mets’ 4-3 win over the Houston Astros on Sunday. While Lindor is expected to be in the starting lineup on the opening day, Senga might step onto the field on Saturday.  

Mets Manager Shares Injury Report on Francisco Lindor

NY Mets manager Carlos Mendoza is confident that Francisco Lindor will be ready for opening day and might even “surprise” everyone with an early return timeline. As of now, the shortstop is ready to take the next step in his rehab after hand surgery due to a stress reaction in his left hamate bone on February 11.

“I think we’re still too early; it’s hard to tell right now, especially knowing Lindor,” Mendoza said. “This is a guy that I wouldn’t be surprised if he comes in a week before we have to break and he says, ‘Hey, I’m ready to go.’”

Lindor’s stitches were removed on Tuesday, and the veteran has been taking part in light baseball activities. Mendoza hopes he can grab a bat and start hitting soon. 

“He’s doing a lot of one-hand swings. Hopefully, in the next few days, he can start just grabbing a bat and start his progression, hitting-wise, then fielding as well. The throwing has been there. He’ll continue to do long toss, throw to the bases. The conditioning is there, so he’s progressing accordingly,” Mendoza added.

While there is no certain return timeline, Lindor is progressing as planned.

“We’ve just got to wait and see,” Mendoza noted.

Kodai Senga Expected to Pitch Against Cardinals

Speaking to the media on Sunday, New York Mets’ Carlos Mendoza outlined the return timeline for Kodai Senga. Since suffering a hamstring injury back in June 2025, the pitcher’s velocity brutally dropped to 6.56 ERA before being sent to Triple-A for a reset. 

However, the 33-year-old seems to be dwelling on his stats as he enjoyed a couple of strikeouts against the Mets hitters on Sunday. Mendoza seemed optimistic about his return, noting that he could start on Saturday against the St. Louis Cardinals.

The Mets suffered a heavy blow following Senga’s hamstring injury. While it’s unclear how much Senga will be able to contribute, Saturday should offer some clarity. The game is set to take place in Jupiter, Florida.

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