Francisco Lindor Begins Rehab Assignment, Nears Return to New York Mets

Francisco Lindor, the New York Mets shortstop, started a minor‑league rehab assignment with the Double‑A Binghamton Rumble Ponies on Friday. Manager Carlos Mendoza said Lindor will play two games, with the possibility of being activated early next week, depending on his health and weather conditions that could affect a subsequent outing in Triple‑A Syracuse. Lindor was placed on the injured list on April 22 after a left calf strain and has spent the past week in simulated games. In his first rehab appearance he went 1‑for‑4 and scored a run, indicating progress toward a major‑league return.

Mets teammate Tyrone Taylor also began a rehab stint, but his recovery from a right hip‑flexor tear is expected to take longer. The Mets, currently mired in the National League East with a losing record, hope Lindor’s return will bolster a lineup that has struggled without him for nearly two months.