Francisco Lindor receives rare DH day in Mets’ victory
New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor took a rare break from his usual position on Saturday, playing as the designated hitter for their game against the Pittsburgh Pirates. Lindor had started all 64 games this season as shortstop and played 159 games in that position last year. Despite his usual full-time role, Lindor welcomed the opportunity, saying it would be “good for his body.” Meanwhile, Luis Guillorme, who returned to the Mets on Friday, served as the team’s backup shortstop.
Manager Buck Showalter said he may give Lindor another break on Sunday, but this could prove challenging as the All-Star shortstop is known for his desire to be on the field. Showalter noted that Guillorme’s return has allowed for Lindor to take a break, but prior to Guillorme’s return, the team faced a “fall off from his level” without Lindor. Lindor got a hit in four at-bats on Saturday as the DH.
In other news, Tommy Hunter was designated for assignment by the Mets after allowing a walk-off homer to the Atlanta Braves’ Ozzie Albies earlier in the week. Hunter, 36, had a 6.85 ERA in 14 appearances for the club this season. He was replaced by relievers John Curtiss and Josh Walker, while Zach Muckenhirn was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse to clear up roster space.
FAQs:
Why did Francisco Lindor play as the designated hitter for the Mets on Saturday?
Lindor played as the designated hitter as a break from his usual position as shortstop. He had started all 64 games this season as shortstop and played 159 games in that position last year.
Who served as the Mets’ backup shortstop on Saturday?
Luis Guillorme, who returned to the Mets on Friday, served as the team’s backup shortstop.
Will Francisco Lindor get another break from playing shortstop on Sunday?
Manager Buck Showalter said he may give Lindor another break on Sunday, but it could be challenging as the All-Star shortstop is known for his desire to be on the field.
Who was designated for assignment by the Mets?
Tommy Hunter was designated for assignment by the Mets after allowing a walk-off homer to the Atlanta Braves’ Ozzie Albies earlier in the week.
Who replaced Tommy Hunter on the Mets roster?
Relievers John Curtiss and Josh Walker replaced Tommy Hunter, while Zach Muckenhirn was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse to clear up roster space.
Mets’ win sees Francisco Lindor reaping the benefits of a rare designated hitter day.
Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor got a rare day off his feet on Saturday when he found out he would serve as designated hitter for their game against the Pirates. Lindor had started all 64 games for the Mets this season at shortstop, but welcomed the break. “I think it will be good for my body,” he said prior to the game. The team’s backup shortstop, Luis Guillorme, returned on Friday, just in time for the game. Manager Buck Showalter would like to give Lindor additional rest on Sunday, but the player’s desire to play may halt that plan.
Tommy Hunter, who had a 6.85 ERA in 14 appearances for the Mets this season, was designated for assignment due to the team’s need for fresh bullpen arms. Zach Muckenhirn was optioned to Triple-A Syracuse in order to clear a roster space for relievers John Curtiss and Josh Walker. Hunter was an admired presence in the clubhouse, according to Showalter.
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