Mets’ Francisco Lindor Shines After Lineup Shuffle

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    NEW YORK — On a day marked by a significant milestone in his career, Francisco Lindor found himself in a different role on the New York Mets. Despite being elected for the first time to start an All-Star Game, Lindor was moved from his usual leadoff spot as the Mets faced a challenging period.

    The adjustment to the lineup quickly proved beneficial. Lindor, having occupied the top of the order for 191 games in a row, shifted to the second spot as the designated hitter against the Milwaukee Brewers and their promising rookie, right-hander Jacob Misiorowski, during the concluding game of a day-night doubleheader.

    “I’ll do whatever it takes to win,” Lindor remarked. “I don’t have to bat in a specific spot. I’ll hit wherever the team needs me.”

    Brandon Nimmo resumed his role as the leadoff hitter, making a significant impact with a grand slam against Misiorowski in the second inning. Lindor followed suit with his 17th home run, subsequently contributing an RBI single in the sixth inning and a double in the eighth, contributing to a 7-3 victory that halted a four-game losing streak for the Mets.

    “With two exceptional players, decisions like these become easier when everyone is committed,” Mets manager Carlos Mendoza commented. “It’s a privilege for me to lead this game, and I’m really pleased with today’s execution and performance.”

    Lindor’s recent struggles were evident as he went 0 for 4 in the opener, a game where the Mets only managed two hits and lost 7-2. His slump had left him 2 for 29 over the past seven games, and after the nightcap, he was hitting 8 for 60 (.133) since mid-June, dragging his average down significantly.

    Nimmo’s return to the leadoff role reflected Mendoza’s strategic decision to reposition Lindor from third to the top earlier this season, inspired by his previous success as a switch-hitter in a similar role for Cleveland. This change appeared to positively impact both Lindor and the Mets, aiding the team in overcoming a tough start and making a deep playoff run the previous season.

    “I don’t mind where I bat,” Nimmo noted. “My approach remains the same. It’s all about helping the team win.”

    Despite a promising start, New York had hit a rough patch, losing 14 of their last 18 games. For Lindor, hitting in a different spot was less unusual than not playing shortstop, as he pointed out.

    In fan voting results announced, Lindor was selected as the starting shortstop for the National League at the All-Star showdown scheduled for July 15 in Atlanta. This marks Lindor’s first All-Star selection in his five seasons with the Mets, after signing a $341 million, 10-year deal following his trade from Cleveland in 2021. Previously, he had been an All-Star four times with Cleveland from 2016 to 2019 but not as a fan-elected starter.

    After receiving the news, Lindor expressed his excitement by calling his wife and father. “You can never take opportunities like this for granted,” he stated. “I’m thrilled and looking forward to the experience.”

    The last Mets shortstop to be selected as an All-Star starter was José Reyes in 2011. Over the last few years, Lindor hasn’t always been a swift starter, yet still managed to place in the top nine for the NL MVP voting the last three seasons and earn Silver Slugger awards in consecutive years.

    “He’s absolutely earned it, and we’re incredibly happy for him,” said Nimmo.