NY Mets: Lindor void hurts the team.

The 2021 New York Mets had expected big things when they inked Shortstop Fransisco Lindor to a ten year 340 million dollar mega deal this off-season. Here’s why the struggling Lindor still creates a huge void that is weakening the core and team.

Lindor may have started off ice cold, however, his defense and leadership skills proved effective in the newly revamped Mets clubhouse. It’s safe to say he created a positive atmosphere for new and veteran players alike; and he drew a fair amount of walks despite grounding out with RISP and flying out to center or right a ton.

Now. To look at the statistics. Lindor was cooling down with each at bat however the adjustment and transition from the American League to the National League is something that takes considerable time given the pitchers in each league are very, very, very different in nature.

Lindor has a 2.1 WAR, 11 home runs hit, 36 RBI’s and is batting .258 with a .335 OBP. So far, that’s ridiculously low as to what Rotochamp projected his numbers to be at the end of the year, let alone we are well underway inching closer to September where the Mets look to be in playoff contention talks for the first time since 2015. Lindor obviously provides on defense, he’s currently on the 10 day IL yet he has been a contributor to the team’s success whether you see it or not. His defense is top quality. His defensive runs saved statistics are even better, 5 opposed to 3 DSR in 2020. Wow. His Swing percentage has dropped from 48.6% to a 45.2%, which is kinda concerning but he should be fine given the situation.

I personally believe Lindor will redeem himself in 2022, yet have a great 2023 given the atmosphere with JT Ginn on the rise, MLB ETA 2023, and Kumar Rocker with an MLB ETA of 2022. These pieces should solidify the team and provide the Mets with a comfortable lead in the NL East.

I’m just some random sportswriter who believes that Lindor has a ton to offer the Mets. Good things are on their way. I’m not here to tell you he’s the next Jose Reyes defensively, I’m just saying fans should be patient when dealing with formerly AL hitters in a whole new league.