Francisco Lindor’s return may not be enough to salvage spiraling Mets mess

The Mets aren’t saying anything officially, but word is star shortstop Francisco Lindor (calf) is expected back the third week of June.

That isn’t a moment too soon. It might actually be too late.

The Mets have issues as they try to mount a comeback: 1) They have close to the worst offense in baseball (.652 OPS ranks 29th); 2) They have multiple starters they only feel comfortable using following an opener; 3) Their schedule is getting harder now; and 4) They still have four starting position players, including Lindor out.

Bo Bichette hasn’t come close to living up to his rep or his contract, but he does have an expected batting average of .282 (compared to the actual mark of .226, MLB’s fourth biggest discrepancy). One scout isn’t impressed. “That’s what they all say.”