In a move that is sure to spark debate among New York Mets fans, former team captain John Franco has publicly endorsed Francisco Lindor as the team’s next captain, citing his loyalty and leadership on and off the field. While many expected Pete Alonso to be a frontrunner for the honor, Franco’s remarks suggest that the first baseman’s prolonged contract situation has significantly weakened his case in the eyes of both the fans and the organization.
Lindor, the Mets’ star shortstop, has been a vocal leader since joining the team in 2021. His commitment to the franchise, unwavering support for his teammates, and consistent performance on the field have not gone unnoticed. Franco, who served as Mets’ captain from 2001 to 2004, believes that these qualities make Lindor the ideal choice to take on the prestigious role.
“Loyalty matters, even in today’s game,” Franco said in a recent interview. “Francisco Lindor has shown that he’s all in on the Mets. He’s a leader in the clubhouse, he works hard every day, and he genuinely loves being a Met. That’s the kind of guy you want as your captain.”
Franco’s comments come amid growing uncertainty surrounding Alonso’s future with the team. The slugging first baseman, who has been a key offensive force for the Mets since his breakout rookie season in 2019, has yet to reach a long-term agreement with the organization. With free agency looming after the 2024 season, speculation about his commitment to the Mets has intensified. Some fans and analysts have expressed concerns that Alonso’s contract negotiations—and the uncertainty surrounding his future—have cast a shadow over his leadership status within the team.
While Alonso has repeatedly expressed his love for New York and his desire to remain a Met, the lack of a long-term deal has left many questioning whether he is as committed as Lindor. Meanwhile, Lindor secured his future with the team in 2021 by signing a 10-year, $341 million extension before even playing a regular-season game for the Mets. That level of commitment, Franco argues, is what separates Lindor from Alonso in the captaincy discussion.
“Pete is a great player, no doubt about it,” Franco added. “But this whole contract situation has really shot him in the foot. When you’re the face of a franchise, people want to know that you’re here for the long haul. Right now, there’s too much uncertainty around Pete, and that’s a problem when you’re talking about leadership.”
Historically, the Mets have been selective in appointing captains. The franchise has only had four official captains in its history—Keith Hernandez, Gary Carter, Franco, and David Wright. The role is not just a symbolic title but a recognition of a player’s influence, leadership, and commitment to the team. Wright, the last player to hold the title, embodied those values before injuries forced his early retirement.
If the Mets were to name a new captain, it would be the first time in nearly a decade that the position was filled. Given the current state of the team and its desire to build a winning culture, appointing a player who exemplifies leadership and loyalty could be a crucial step forward.
Franco’s endorsement of Lindor over Alonso is sure to generate discussion among fans and analysts alike. While Alonso remains a fan favorite and one of the most productive players in the lineup, the unresolved nature of his contract situation has cast doubt over his long-term future in Queens. On the other hand, Lindor’s leadership, energy, and clear commitment to the franchise make him a strong candidate for the captaincy.
Whether the Mets officially name a captain in the near future remains to be seen, but if Franco’s words carry weight, Francisco Lindor could very well be the next player to wear the coveted ‘C’ on his jersey.
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