Francisco Lindor Nears Batting Return, Optimistic for Opening Day After Surgery

Francisco Lindor, recovering from hamate bone surgery in his left hand, played catch Monday and is scheduled for defensive drills Tuesday. He is expected to begin taking full swings by Wednesday, a significant step in his rehabilitation. Lindor remains optimistic about being ready for Opening Day on March 26, though he cannot afford any setbacks. Manager Carlos Mendoza confirmed Lindor is incorporating more baseball activities, with confidence in camp that he can get enough at-bats this spring to avoid missing regular season time.