Mets celebrate Francisco Lindor's 2025 All-Star start on July 7, but face a major blow as reliever Dedniel Núñez considers season-ending Tommy John surgery.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Even on a day off, the news cycle never stops for the New York Mets. Monday brought a dose of celebration as Francisco Lindor was officially named a starter for the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, a testament to his stellar first half. But the good news was tempered by significant injury updates that could dramatically reshape the pitching staff for the second half of the season.
'It means a lot.' - Francisco Lindor on being named an All-Star Game starter.
Let's start with the good stuff. Francisco Lindor is heading to the Midsummer Classic as a starting shortstop, and no one is more deserving. His performance has been the engine of the Mets offense, providing power, average, and Gold Glove-caliber defense day in and day out. His simple but heartfelt reaction, 'It means a lot,' speaks volumes about his dedication and leadership. It's a massive individual honor that reflects the team's overall success and gives fans something to cheer about as the break approaches.
Now for the gut punch. High-leverage reliever Dedniel Núñez is reportedly considering a second Tommy John surgery after a setback with elbow discomfort. Losing a key bullpen arm for an extended period, potentially into next season, would be a devastating blow. This news underscores the constant shuffling the Mets have endured in their relief corps, with names like Reed Garrett and Wascar Brazoban cycling through to plug holes. On the flip side, there's a major reinforcement on the verge of returning. Lefty Sean Manaea, who has missed the entire season, is slated for one final rehab start this week. If he hits his target of 75+ pitches, he could be activated before the All-Star break, providing a desperately needed boost to the rotation.
With the big-league bullpen in flux, all eyes turn to the farm system. The Mets' system is highly regarded for a reason, and it may be called upon sooner rather than later. Top pitching prospect Brandon Sproat continues to impress and could be a future rotation or bullpen piece. The organization has also made significant investments in catching with international prospects Daiverson Gutierrez and Yovanny Rodriguez, securing the team's future behind the plate. While these names might not provide immediate relief for the Núñez injury, the overall health of the farm system means reinforcements are always in the pipeline, a comforting thought for a team navigating a tough stretch of injuries.
As the Mets look ahead to the final stretch before the All-Star break, the narrative is clear. They have an All-Star leader in Lindor guiding the offense, but the season's success may hinge on the pitching staff's ability to weather this storm. Can the bullpen hold the line until Sean Manaea's return? And will the front office need to dip further into the farm system to replace a key arm like Núñez? The next week will be crucial.
