Francisco Lindor back in Mets lineup as weather threatens Braves game

ATLANTA – Francisco Lindor was set for a return to the Mets’ starting lineup Wednesday, provided the team actually plays.With rain in the forecast throughout the day, ahead of Hurricane Helene’s arrival, Lindor was penciled in as the starting shortstop and leadoff hitter against the Braves.The Mets shortstop has missed the last eight games with lower back discomfort.Lindor was available off the bench in Tuesday’s 5-1 loss at Truist Park.

He moved to the on-deck circle in the ninth inning, but the game ended before he could get an at-bat.Lindor underwent a bone scan earlier in the week that reconfirmed there isn’t any structural damage to the back, but neither the player nor the team has provided a diagnosis.Lindor last appeared in a game on Sept.

15, when he departed after 1 ½ innings in Philadelphia.He aggravated the back two nights earlier when he overran second base on a double after not sliding into the bag....