Francisco Lindor won’t play for Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic, dealing a major blow to the team’s championship hopes.
The New York Mets shortstop can’t get insurance clearance after having a cleanup procedure on his right elbow this offseason. It’s the same issue that’s keeping Carlos Correa and Jose Altuve from representing their countries in March.
Puerto Rico was counting on Lindor as a centerpiece player. Now they’ll have to shuffle their infield again after already losing Correa to similar insurance constraints.
“Due to the cleanup procedure that Francisco Lindor had on his right elbow earlier this offseason, he will not be participating for team Puerto Rico in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. Francisco is obviously disappointed that he will be unable to participate. However, because of WBC insurance constraints, he is ineligible to play in WBC games. He will participate fully in all spring training activities.”
The timing creates an odd situation where fans will watch Lindor taking batting practice in Port St. Lucie while Puerto Rico plays without one of its biggest stars.
From the Mets’ perspective, there’s no concern about Lindor’s health heading into the season. The procedure was minor, and he’s expected to be ready for opening day.
But for Puerto Rico, losing both Lindor and Correa leaves them scrambling to fill two premium infield spots. They’re still talented enough to compete, but it’s hard to replace that level of star power in a short tournament format.
The insurance issues have become a recurring theme for the WBC. Players who’ve had any offseason procedures often can’t get coverage, forcing them to choose between representing their country and protecting their MLB contracts.
It’s a tough break for international baseball, especially when you’re talking about players like Lindor who genuinely want to play for their home countries.
