The New York Mets welcomed their new star shortstop on Monday, after they held an introductory press conference for Francisco Lindor. Last week, the Mets made a statement by trading four players – shortstops Andres Gimenez and Amed Rosario plus two prospects – to the Cleveland Indians in exchange for Lindor and Carlos Carrasco.
With the smile that has made him famous in his tenure as a big leaguer, Lindor said he is excited to be a part of the New York Mets.
“They say smiling is very contagious,” Lindor said, while donning a Mets cap. “I’m going to bring Francisco Lindor, I’m going to do me on a daily basis — hopefully that’s good enough for my teammates and the fans. … Why not smile? I’m living my dream. I’m living the life I always wanted. So I don’t see why I wouldn’t smile.”
Carrasco will be introduced on Tuesday at 1 pm ET.
Lindor is a proven star. At 27 years old, he already has four All-Star games under his belt, plus two Gold Gloves. From 2016 to 2019, he averaged 30 homers and 20 steals.
He’s “excited” to play for the Mets
“There’s been so much excitement about the Mets that I couldn’t help myself to be extremely excited [and] to be happy,” Lindor said. “It’s a new opportunity for me, my family — I’m blessed. I’m blessed to be able to play the greatest game out there in probably the biggest city in the world and one of the most fun cities in the world.”
Lindor’s impact will also be felt with the glove. He has 46 Defensive Runs Saved since entering the Majors in 2015.
“I’m ready to continue to work and ready to win,” Lindor said. “I’m excited to be part of this organization, and I can’t wait to be part of the great things they have going on in the clubhouse. I just want to be a little piece of the puzzle, and hopefully, we achieve the ultimate goal, which is winning.”
Naturally, Mets’ fans would love for Lindor to sign an extension, as he only has one year left of team control. Here is what he said about the subject: “Like I said, I’m excited to be with the Mets organization. I’m not against a long-term [extension], but it has to make sense for both sides. I’m sure my agent will do a great job and get me everything I desire, and we’ll see what happens. I’m extremely excited for this new chapter.”
The Mets, it appears, have a new face of the franchise.