Entering the 2024 season, there was a palpable sense of optimism surrounding the Mets, largely fueled by Francisco Lindor‘s stellar performance in the previous year. Expectations were high for the star shortstop, with hopes that he would pick up where he left off.

However, reality has been harsh for both the Mets and Lindor. The team started the season with five consecutive losses, exposing glaring offensive struggles, including Lindor’s own batting woes. Heading into Sunday’s game, Lindor had only managed one hit in 31 at-bats over eight games, sporting a dismal .032 batting average—a far cry from what is expected from a high-profile player.

Yet, in a refreshing turn of events, Lindor displayed his skill in a 3-1 victory against the Reds at Great American Ball Park, clinching the Mets’ first series win of the year.

His impact was felt in the fourth inning when he notched two additional hits—a double in the first inning and a home run in the fourth off Andrew Abbott, marking his first extra-base hits of the season.

Lindor’s 2-for-5 performance provided much-needed offensive support for the struggling Mets, compensating for missed opportunities earlier in the game. Lindor maintained his characteristic upbeat demeanor despite his recent struggles, sharing fist bumps with teammates between innings.

His improvement at the plate on Sunday reflected his unwavering determination as his at-bats had improved more and more during each game over the last few games. Before his pivotal home run, the Mets managed to scrape together a run in the second inning through unconventional means, including bunt singles and a hit-by-pitch.

Strong pitching from Sean Manaea and the bullpen limited the Reds to just three hits, sealing the victory for the Mets and confirming Lindor’s hard work and perseverance.

As the team carries this momentum into their upcoming series in Atlanta, the question looms: could Lindor’s standout performance signal the resurgence of his superstar status at the plate? Only time will tell, but the signs are certainly promising.

“I am Francisco Lindor. I’m me every single day,” said Lindor, “When I’m doing good or bad, it is my job, it is my duty as a leader to be the same person.”