Spanish
PORT ST. LUCIE, Florida. – Puerto Rican shortstop Francisco Lindor took an important step in his recovery process by seeing action this Tuesday in a Minor League game, with the hope of being in condition for the start of the Major League season.
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The stellar New York Mets player participated for four innings on defense in a game against the St. Louis Cardinals at the Clover Park training complex. Although he made an error in the field, the player assured he felt satisfied with his physical progress. "I felt very good. I'm tired, but that's part of the process. It was a good day," Lindor expressed after his first participation in a game since undergoing surgery. The torpedo boat hasn't taken any turns at bat during the game yet, as he continues to gradually increase his workload. Although he has been practicing swings in indoor sessions, the coaching staff prefers to proceed with caution before he faces pitches in game situations. Lindor is recovering from an operation performed on February 11th to correct a stress reaction in the hamate bone of his left hand, a discomfort that appeared at the beginning of spring training. The team's president of baseball operations, David Stearns, had recently indicated that the player needed to participate in at least one game before Opening Day to increase his chances of being ready for the start of the season. The Mets will begin their campaign on March 26 against the Pittsburgh Pirates at Citi Field. At 32 years old, Lindor remains optimistic about being available for that commitment. "I have complete faith in our medical team. They have worked hard with me every day and I trust the process," he affirmed. When he is in physical prime, Lindor has been one of the most consistent players in Major League Baseball. Last season he recorded a .267 average with 31 home runs and 31 stolen bases in 160 games, achieving another 30-30 campaign and establishing himself as one of the key pieces of the New York team.
