It has been anything but smooth sailing for Francisco Lindor since being traded from Cleveland to New York prior to the 2021 season. The Mets shortstop struggled at the plate last year and had run-ins with teammates. In 2022, Lindor is laboring once again. 

There is no doubt that his offensive shortcomings are wearing on him. Lindor is a hard worker who is doing everything in his power to succeed. But he is currently slashing an extremely underwhelming .228/.315/.393 with a .709 OPS. Last year, Lindor slashed .230/.322/.412 with a .734 OPS. 

The Mets inked the shortstop to a 10-year, $341 million dollar contract after acquiring him via trade last year. But the cold hard truth is that the deal has not worked out so far. With that being said, Lindor has plenty of time to turn things around. 

He recently commented on his struggles and made an interesting remark in regards to his massive contract. 

“I’m working, I’m doing whatever it takes. It’s just a part of the game, too. Pitchers have nice cars, too… I can only control how I go out with my process.”

It would appear as if he is defending his contract by saying pitchers are really good and they also get paid well.  

Mets manager Buck Showalter shared his thoughts on Francisco Lindor’s consistent floundering at the plate.

“He’s not at the level he spoiled us with for a little while. It’s really hard to do. But I don’t worry about him. He’s playing a good shortstop, playing with great effort, engaged with every game, every inning. I’m real happy with him. What may not be happening perfectly now… he’ll figure it out.”

Showalter makes a good point. Lindor is still a valuable player based on his elite defense. 

But the Mets are hoping he can figure things out from an offensive standpoint sooner than later.