Francisco Lindor Takes Over After David Wright’s Retirement in 2018 as New York Mets’ Next Captain Heading into 2025 Season

When David Wright played his final game for the New York Mets in 2018, it marked the end of an era. Wright, who had been the heart and soul of the franchise for over a decade, was a captain in every sense of the word—both on and off the field. His leadership, work ethic, and love for the game made him one of the most beloved players in Mets history. However, his retirement left a void that the organization struggled to fill.

Fast forward to 2025, and the Mets finally have their next captain: Francisco Lindor. The dynamic shortstop, known for his elite defense, offensive production, and infectious charisma, has taken on the role of team leader. It has been a long time coming, but with Lindor at the helm, the Mets are poised for success.

The Legacy of David Wright

Before diving into Lindor’s rise to captaincy, it is important to understand the impact of David Wright. Drafted by the Mets in 2001, Wright quickly became a fan favorite after making his debut in 2004. He was a seven-time All-Star, two-time Gold Glove winner, and two-time Silver Slugger. His presence on the field and in the clubhouse made him a natural leader.

In 2013, Wright was named the fourth captain in franchise history, following in the footsteps of Keith Hernandez, Gary Carter, and John Franco. He embodied what it meant to be a Met, leading the team with his bat, glove, and unwavering commitment. However, injuries plagued the latter part of his career. A chronic spinal condition forced him to retire in 2018, leaving a leadership void that took years to fill.

Lindor’s Arrival in New York

Francisco Lindor was already a superstar before he ever put on a Mets uniform. Drafted by the Cleveland Guardians (then Indians) in 2011, he made his MLB debut in 2015 and quickly became one of the best shortstops in baseball. His combination of elite defense, speed, and power made him a four-time All-Star before the Mets acquired him in a blockbuster trade ahead of the 2021 season.

When the Mets traded for Lindor, they weren’t just getting an elite player—they were getting a potential leader. However, the transition to New York wasn’t easy. In his first season with the team, Lindor struggled offensively, batting .230 with 20 home runs. The pressure of playing in the New York market, coupled with high expectations after signing a 10-year, $341 million contract extension, made for a tough adjustment.

Overcoming Early Struggles

Lindor’s first season with the Mets wasn’t without controversy. One of the lowest points came during the infamous “thumbs down” incident, where he and teammates Javy Báez and Kevin Pillar used a thumbs-down gesture to mock fans who had been booing them. The backlash was swift, and Lindor quickly realized that winning over Mets fans required more than just talent—it required accountability and leadership.

To his credit, Lindor learned from his mistakes. In 2022, he bounced back in a big way, hitting .270 with 26 home runs, 107 RBIs, and stellar defense. He played a key role in leading the Mets to a 101-win season, their first playoff appearance since 2016. More importantly, he began to embrace the responsibilities of being a leader in the clubhouse.

Earning the Respect of Teammates

By 2023, Lindor had fully embraced his role as the face of the franchise. His work ethic, professionalism, and enthusiasm became infectious. Young players looked up to him, and veterans respected him. He became a mentor to the Mets’ rising stars, including Brett Baty, Francisco Álvarez, and Ronny Mauricio.

One of Lindor’s defining traits is his ability to lead by example. He’s not the loudest player in the clubhouse, but his preparation and dedication speak volumes. He’s always the first one on the field and the last one to leave. That type of commitment doesn’t go unnoticed, and it’s one of the reasons why he was a natural choice for captain.

Officially Named Mets Captain

Heading into the 2025 season, the Mets made it official—Francisco Lindor was named the team’s captain, the first since David Wright. The decision wasn’t just about his on-field performance but also about the intangibles he brings to the team.

Mets owner Steve Cohen and manager Carlos Mendoza praised Lindor’s leadership qualities, citing his ability to unify the clubhouse and hold teammates accountable. Lindor himself was humbled by the honor, stating, “To wear the ‘C’ on my jersey is a privilege. This team has a great history, and following in the footsteps of guys like David Wright means a lot to me.”

What Lindor’s Captaincy Means for the Mets

The Mets have gone through their fair share of ups and downs since Wright’s retirement. They’ve seen disappointing seasons, front-office changes, and missed playoff opportunities. However, with Lindor leading the way, the team has a renewed sense of direction.

As captain, Lindor’s job goes beyond putting up big numbers. He’ll be responsible for keeping the clubhouse together, especially in the tough moments. He’ll need to guide younger players, communicate with the coaching staff, and set the tone every day.

Lindor’s On-Field Impact

From a baseball standpoint, Lindor is still in his prime. His elite defense at shortstop saves runs and provides stability up the middle. Offensively, he remains a threat, capable of hitting 25+ home runs while driving in 90+ RBIs.

Perhaps most importantly, Lindor is a winner. He’s been to the World Series before (2016 with Cleveland) and understands what it takes to compete at the highest level. His leadership will be crucial as the Mets aim to return to postseason contention.

Can Lindor Deliver a Championship?

Mets fans are desperate for another World Series title—their first since 1986. With Lindor as captain, the expectation is that he can help lead the team to the promised land.

The Mets have a strong roster heading into 2025, with stars like Pete Alonso, Kodai Senga, and Edwin Díaz. However, the National League remains competitive, with powerhouses like the Braves and Dodgers standing in their way. Lindor’s ability to keep the team focused and motivated will be critical.

Final Thoughts

Francisco Lindor’s journey from Cleveland to New York hasn’t always been smooth, but it has led him to this moment. As the new captain of the Mets, he has the chance to cement his legacy as one of the franchise’s all-time greats.

David Wright’s shoes were never going to be easy to fill, but Lindor isn’t trying to be the next David Wright—he’s carving his own path. With his leadership, talent, and passion for the game, the Mets are in good hands heading into 2025 and beyond.