After enduring the worst slump of his career where he went hitless in 31 at-bats,New York Mets’ Francisco Lindor has found his rhythm again with the strong support of manager Carlos Mendoza, fueling hopes of a successful MLB season. The shortstop overcame the worst hitting slump of his career at a crucial time for the Mets. After an 0-for-31 streak, he now has five hits in his last two games, showing signs that he is regaining his MVP level.
In the recent 8-1 victory over the San Francisco Giants, the Puerto Rican went 5-for-3, demonstrating the offensive versatility and patience that his team so desperately needs. The confidence of his manager and the support of the hitting staff seem to be driving his resurgence. “His ability to use the whole field and play in the other direction is when he’s at his best,” Mendoza said after the game, according to SNY. “There are very good signs and it’s good that he feels that way.”
How has Lindor’s approach at the plate changed recently?
Mendoza analyzed Lindor’s three hits during the game, highlighting the encouraging signs in each at-bat. His first hit was a hard single up the middle in the first inning. The second was an inside fastball that snuck over the right-field wall, marking his 20th home run of the season. Despite striking out in his next two at-bats, Lindor ended the game with a ground-rule double down the left-field line in the opposite direction.
Lindor attributed his success to a clear game plan and the rhythm of his swing.“I got rhythm. I feel good. Today I did what I wanted. I had a game plan and I executed it. That means my swing is in a good spot. Stay the course and keep getting better every day.”His batting average dropped from .283 at the start of June to a dismal .245 at the lowest point of his slump in July.
What does this mean for the New York Mets’ playoff hopes?
With Lindor’s resurgence coinciding with a five-game winning streak, the Mets currently hold a precarious lead in the National League East Division over the Philadelphia Phillies. The team’s divisional title aspirations depend heavily on Lindor regaining his consistent form and maintaining his offensive production for the remainder of the MLB season.“It comes and goes. I work, I feel good, and then it goes away. It’s natural when you go through tough times… you trust the people around you and hope to get a couple of hits,” Lindor explained about the nature of his struggles.
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