New York — The MLB Injury Report released Wednesday shows shortstop Francisco Lindor, outfielder Luis Robert Jr. and infielder Jorge Polanco still on the Mets’ injured list as of May 14, 2026. Lindor’s calf strain, first noted on April 22 against Minnesota, lacks a firm return date, while Robert and Polanco remain in a holding pattern.
Manager Carlos Mendoza said Lindor is “doing better,” but doctors won’t clear him until a follow‑up MRI is reviewed later this week. President of baseball operations David Stearns confirmed there is no Achilles involvement, narrowing the injury scope to the calf. The numbers reveal his sprint speed has dropped about 0.2 seconds, a measurable dip for a player who relies on quickness.
What each player’s latest update tells us
Francisco Lindor strained his right calf sliding into second base on April 22. An initial MRI was followed by a second scan scheduled for Wednesday or Thursday to gauge lingering damage. Luis Robert Jr. continues to report vague symptoms that keep him from full participation, and Jorge Polanco lists similar discomfort, leaving both on the IL pending clearance.
Medical staff insights and timeline clues
According to the Mets’ official bulletin, Lindor’s MRI results will dictate whether a late‑May return is feasible; a June timeline remains realistic if healing progresses. No surgery is anticipated, and Stearns emphasized the absence of any Achilles issue, which could have extended recovery. Film shows Robert’s stride has been noticeably shortened, while Polanco’s rehab focuses on core stability and targeted therapy.
Key Developments
- Lindor’s calf strain occurred during a slide on April 22 against the Minnesota Twins, marking his first major injury of the 2026 campaign.
- The second MRI for Lindor is set for Wednesday or Thursday, a crucial step before any return can be projected.
- Team physicians have ruled out Achilles problems for Lindor, narrowing the injury to the calf alone.
- Robert Jr. and Polanco are listed as “symptom‑related” injuries, meaning they will stay inactive until conditions improve.
- Mendoza described Lindor’s progress as “doing better,” but cautioned that timelines remain uncertain.
Impact on the Mets and next steps
With the Mets hovering near the NL East playoff bubble, the loss of Lindor’s bat and defensive range hurts short‑term firepower. If he returns by late May, his left‑handed swing could spark a mid‑season surge; a June comeback would still leave the club shorthanded during a critical stretch against division rivals. Robert’s speed on the bases and Polanco’s versatility are also missed, forcing Mendoza to lean on bench depth and defensive shifts. The front‑office brass will monitor MRI outcomes closely and may consider a short‑term call‑up from Triple‑A if the injuries linger.
When did Francisco Lindor sustain his calf injury?
Lindor strained his right calf on April 22, 2026, while sliding into second base during a game against the Minnesota Twins, according to the Mets’ injury update.
What does the MLB Injury Report say about Luis Robert Jr.’s condition?
The report lists Robert Jr. as dealing with vague, symptom‑related issues that keep him from full participation, with no specific timetable announced.
How does the Mets’ medical staff determine a player’s return date?
They rely on follow‑up imaging, physical assessments, and performance metrics; the numbers reveal progress trends that guide clearance decisions (general knowledge).