As fans eagerly awaited Francisco Lindor's return to the Mets lineup after a long absence due to back discomfort, Mother Nature had other plans. The game against the Braves at Truist Park was postponed because of storms and Hurricane Helene, leaving the team with an altered schedule. Manager Carlos Mendoza had placed Lindor at the top of the batting order for Wednesday's game, indicating his readiness to play. Despite this setback, Mendoza sees the upcoming break as a positive development for Lindor, who has only played 1.5 innings since September 13.

Lindor's back injury occurred when he overran second base on a double without sliding into the bag. Although a bone scan showed no structural damage, both Lindor and the team have been cautious about diagnosing the issue. The Mets star knows he will have to manage pain upon his return to action. Meanwhile, Jose Iglesias took Lindor's spot at second base, while Luisangel Acuña stepped up in Lindor's absence, hitting .375 over 10 games.

The postponement also affected Brandon Nimmo's lineup placement. Mendoza decided to load the order with righty bats against Chris Sale, who has been particularly effective against left-handed hitters this season. The struggling J.D. Martinez was initially penciled in as designated hitter, with Tyrone Taylor and Harrison Bader slated for outfield positions.

Ronald Acuña Jr., the 2023 MVP who tore his ACL in May, watched his younger brother Luisangel play in the majors for the first time on Tuesday. "It's a dream come true," he said through an interpreter, expressing pride and conflicting emotions about seeing his sibling succeed against his own team.

LUISANGEL

When Weather Strikes, Lindor's Comeback Plans Delayed