By Sunday 
Mets Star Aims to Elevate His Game with More Speed on the Bases
Lindor’s Leadoff Switch Sparked a Turnaround
Francisco Lindor’s move to the leadoff spot in 2024 proved to be a game-changer for the New York Mets. Initially struggling through one of the worst slumps of his career, the switch—made by manager Carlos Mendoza—helped Lindor regain his form. Over 109 games at the top of the order, he posted an impressive .303/.374/.552 slash line, with 26 home runs and 71 RBIs.
His resurgence solidified his role as the Mets’ leadoff hitter for 2025, a move few anticipated when he was first acquired in 2021. However, as long as he keeps producing at an MVP level, the decision is an easy one. Lindor himself has embraced the shift, seeing it as an opportunity to expand his skill set.
A Focus on Speed and Stolen Bases
Lindor recently shared his mindset for the upcoming season in an interview with MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM. “With the guys we have behind me, I better have good hamstrings in a good spot to run,” he joked. More importantly, he set a clear goal: “My goal is to get 90% or 95% more stolen bases.”
This signals a shift in Lindor’s approach. While always a solid baserunner, he’s never been known as an elite base-stealer. Throughout his career, he has averaged 18.5 stolen bases per season. However, that changed in recent years—he swiped 31 bags in 2023, followed by 29 in 2024. Now, he wants to take it a step further, aiming to make speed a bigger part of his offensive arsenal.
A More Traditional Leadoff Approach
Historically, the best leadoff hitters—like Rickey Henderson and Lou Brock—used their speed to get on base and immediately create scoring opportunities. Lindor hopes to embrace that philosophy by becoming a more aggressive baserunner.
For the Mets, this adjustment could provide a much-needed boost. Outside of Starling Marte, New York lacks a true stolen base threat. While other players possess speed, no one consistently puts pressure on defenses the way Marte does. If Lindor can successfully increase his stolen base numbers, he’ll add a new dynamic to the Mets’ offense, making them even more dangerous at the top of the order.
Lindor’s Evolution as a Player
While Lindor’s ability to hit for power and play elite defense has never been in question, his desire to improve his speed makes him even more valuable. If he can blend his improved baserunning with his existing skill set, he’ll be an even bigger weapon for the Mets in 2025.
For Lindor, the goal is clear: keep hitting, keep stealing, and keep leading the Mets to success.