MLB analyst emphasizes Francisco Lindor's importance to the New York Mets
Francisco Lindor's arrival in New York was highly anticipated, and he did not disappoint in his second season with the Mets. The four-time All-Star shortstop provided both outstanding defensive play and solid offensive contributions, helping the team secure a postseason berth.
However, as the MLB analyst pointed out, it may be unrealistic to expect Lindor to replicate his career-high numbers from 2022. Nonetheless, his value to the Mets goes beyond statistics, and he is likely to remain a crucial part of the team's success in 2023.
Francisco Lindor's defense alone makes him one of the most valuable players in the league. He won the Gold Glove Award in 2016, 2019, and 2021, and he was a finalist in 2017 and 2018.
His quick reflexes, range, and arm strength allow him to make plays that few other shortstops can. In 2022, he recorded 10 Defensive Runs Saved, according to FanGraphs, the fourth-highest among all MLB shortstops.
His presence in the infield not only saves runs but also boosts the morale of the entire team. His energy and enthusiasm are contagious, and his leadership on the field is crucial.
Offensively, Lindor had an up-and-down season in 2022. He started slowly, hitting only .207 with a .670 OPS in April, but he rebounded in May and June, batting .317 with a .923 OPS.
He then slumped again in July and August before finishing strong in September. Overall, he hit .270 with 26 home runs, 107 RBIs, and 98 runs scored. It is important to note that Lindor played most of the season with a nagging oblique injury that likely affected his swing. Assuming he is fully healthy in 2023, he should be able to produce better offensive numbers.
MLB insider Britt Ghiroli spoke about Lindor last night on the SNY Network: "He's going to be there. He's going to be the heart of this team, but he's probably not going to have the season he had last year."
What are the expectations for Francisco Lindor in 2023 coming off of one of the best seasons ever for a #Mets shortstop?
@Britt_Ghiroli, @EliseMenaker and @john_jastremski ⬇️ https://t.co/0uy41kDCfE
Career fWAR thru age 28 season
Francisco Lindor 42.0
Derek Jeter 32.5 https://t.co/P6rXJM249i
Francisco Lindor will aim to improve on his impressive numbers from last season
While it may be unrealistic to expect Francisco Lindor to replicate his career-high season in 2022, he remains a crucial part of the New York Mets' success in 2023.
His outstanding defense, solid offense, leadership, and infectious personality make him one of the most valuable players in the MLB. His presence in the clubhouse and on the field helps keep the team focused and motivated.
As the Mets look to build on their success in 2022 and contend for a World Series, they can count on Francisco Lindor to be the heart of their team.