Mets’ Lindor Achieves Historic Milestone Ahead of Cubs Series

NEW YORK, NY – The New York Mets will kick off a crucial weekend series against the Chicago Cubs on Friday night at Citi Field. This matchup features two division leaders, with the Cubs at 22-16 leading the National League Central, while the Mets are at 24-14 sitting atop the National League East.

Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor enters this series following a significant achievement in his career. As noted by @JayHayKid of Underdog Fantasy, Lindor has become the first shortstop to surpass the 50-WAR threshold since Derek Jeter. Historically, the last six shortstops who reached this milestone have all been inducted into the Hall of Fame, including legends like Cal Ripken Jr. and Ozzie Smith. The last player to miss this mark was Bert Campaneris.

With analytics playing a crucial role in modern baseball, Lindor’s milestone enhances his credentials for future Hall of Fame consideration. The 31-year-old has had an impressive career, playing 11 seasons with the Cleveland Guardians and the Mets. He boasts a .274 batting average, along with 255 home runs and 189 stolen bases. Lindor is a four-time All-Star, a four-time Silver Slugger, and has won two Gold Gloves in addition to a Platinum Glove.

Lindor has played a vital role in postseason runs, contributing to the Guardians’ World Series appearance in 2016 and leading the Mets to the National League Championship Series in 2024. As he continues to build his legacy, his recent accomplishments will only serve to strengthen his case for Cooperstown.

The series opener against the Cubs is set for 7:10 p.m. ET, featuring Jameson Taillon for Chicago and Clay Holmes for New York. Holmes currently holds a record of 4-1 with a 2.95 ERA.