New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor stated he needs to "be more aggressive" on defense after a pair of early errors in Saturday's 6-2 loss to the Miami Marlins at Citi Field. These defensive lapses have become a recurring theme for the team throughout a challenging season.
In the first inning, Lindor misplayed a ground ball by Otto Lopez, which was ruled an error, and then threw late to second base on the following play on a ground ball hit by Heriberto Hernández. Lopez was safe at second on the play, though he was later retired on a subsequent out. Lindor received a sarcastic ovation from the crowd later in the inning when he successfully caught a soft liner.
"We just want him on the attack," interim manager Andy Green said of Lindor's defensive approach. "I think when he attacks the ball, he defends really well. … When he’s on the attack, he’s one of the best shortstops in baseball."
Lindor attributed the initial misplay to rushing the ground ball. "That changed the outcome of the game," Lindor said. "I’ve got to be better."
The game coincided with the Mets celebrating their 1986 World Series championship team, a stark contrast to the current team's struggles, which saw them fall to a 47-65 record. Lindor acknowledged the ongoing difficulties for both himself and the organization.
Despite the team's struggles and the approaching trade deadline, Lindor expressed that external factors do not affect his focus. "That doesn’t affect me," Lindor said. "If it does, I’m in the wrong business. It’s gonna happen every year. We’re either gonna add or subtract."
Lindor, alongside Juan Soto, was expected to lead a high-payroll offense this season. He took time to speak with members of the 1986 team who were in attendance, stating, "Those guys are great and deserve to be celebrated." However, he emphasized that he doesn't need their presence as added inspiration, expressing a strong personal desire to win.
"I don’t need more inspiration," Lindor said. "I want to win. I’m as hungry as ever. My job with this organization is not over until we win. Even then, it’s got to continue."
The Mets have seen a decline since reaching the NLCS in 2024, failing to make the playoffs last year and currently sitting at the bottom of the league standings. Nevertheless, Lindor maintained a "very optimistic" outlook for the team's future.