Francisco Lindor blasts three-run homer as Mets sweep Phillies to start second half

Francisco Lindor crushed a three-run home run Sunday as the New York Mets opened the second half with a 6-1 win over the Philadelphia Phillies at Citi Field. Lindor went 3-for-3 with three RBI and scored three runs, finishing a triple short of the cycle and lifting his OPS to .695 on the season.

What happened?

The Mets took two of three from their National League East rivals on 20 July 2026 behind Lindor’s offensive explosion. His three-run blast in the fifth inning broke a 1-1 tie and set the tone for a dominant team performance. New York’s offense added three more runs in the seventh to seal the series-opening victory.

Lindor’s big day came after a brutal first half. He missed most of spring training with a broken hamate bone in his hand, then battled a calf strain that kept him out for much of April and May. The five-time All-Star has slashed just .220/.304/.390 with six homers and 15 RBI in 43 games, struggling to shake off a deep slump.

Why it matters for Francisco Lindor

The 32-year-old shortstop is fighting to regain his MVP-level form from recent seasons. Lindor reached base safely three times Sunday and nearly completed the cycle, showing flashes of the 30-30 threat he’s been in past years. Still, his defense has been a major concern. Lindor has committed six errors this season-nearly half of his total from 2025-and made three mistakes in his last four games.

“I’m letting down the pitchers that have worked extremely hard,” Lindor told SNY. “For me, defense, it’s the most important thing and it’s been not good, not good at all.”

What comes next?

Lindor’s name has surfaced in trade rumors, though there’s no concrete evidence the Mets will move him. With five years and over $150 million left on his contract and a no-trade clause in place, he’s likely to stay put. Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon of The Athletic noted that Lindor may be showing signs of decline, but added it’s unwise to count him out completely.

The Mets enter Monday’s series in Milwaukee with a .420 winning percentage, second-worst in the NL behind only the Colorado Rockies (.396). Lindor’s fight to turn things around figures to be a central storyline as New York tries to climb out of the standings cellar.

Words of support

Former Mets outfielder Darryl Strawberry, a star on the 1986 World Series champions, offered Lindor a public vote of confidence on Instagram. “Let’s Go @lindor12bc,” Strawberry wrote. “You’re one (of) the best player in baseball history!! Don’t let the foolishness get to you. I’m pulling for you Bro!”