MLB radio host Sal Licata is not shy about giving his candid and direct commentary, especially when it comes to his beloved New York Mets. On this occasion, it was Puerto Rican infielder Francisco Lindor that found himself on the receiving end of Licata’s criticism.
Lindor is a four-time All-Star and a two-time Gold Glove winner. There were high expectations when the Mets confirmed a trade with the Cleveland Guardians for the talented star in 2021, but after failing to reach his previous highs, Licata seems to be losing patience.
“I don’t think he can handle the pressure of New York,” said Licata on WFAN Sports Radio. “I don’t think he has ever fully recovered. He doesn’t play lose. He is not having fun since be has been a Met.”
.@sal_licata doesn't think Francisco Lindor is having fun being a New York Met: pic.twitter.com/4QqEERCcHI
— WFAN Sports Radio (@WFAN660) April 1, 2024
In 2021, Licata, called it a “huge day for this organization and for this fanbase” when the Mets extended the shortstop to whopping 10-year, $341 million contract. His tune seems to have changed after 30-year-old has failed to step up and lead this team past the NL Wild Card Series over the last three seasons.
Since joining the Mets, Lindor has failed to hit over .270. In 2021, he slashed a mediocre .230/.322/.412 over 125 games. Over 450 total games with the organization, he has recorded 77 home runs, 268 RBIs and 57 stolen bases.
This season, Lindor is off to a particularly poor start with just one hit over 16 at-bats and a abysmal .167 OBP. The Mets are currently 0-4 on the season and if their poor form continues, the pressure will continue to pile on for a player that was expected by many to be the saviour for this organization.
