Francisco Lindor won’t participate in 2026 WBC due to ‘insurance constraints’ after elbow procedure

One Mets star won’t be participating in the World Baseball Classic after all.

Francisco Lindor will not represent Team Puerto Rico this spring because of an elbow procedure he underwent in October and “insurance constraints” of the international tournament, according to a statement from the MLB Players Association.

Lindor underwent debridement surgery to clean up his right elbow, and the Mets said in the fall that he would be ready for the start of spring training, a sentiment reiterated by the MLBPA.

“Francisco is obviously disappointed that he will be unable to participate,” the players’ association statement read. “However, because of WBC insurance constraints, he is ineligible to play in WBC games.

“He will participate fully in all spring training activities.”

Lindor was the captain of the Puerto Rican squad in 2023 and was picked last spring to reprise that role in 2026.

New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor (12) hits a single in the third inning against the St. Louis Cardinals at Citi Field, Sunday, April 20, 2025, in Queens, NY. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST

He paced the team’s offense last time around with a .450 average, collecting a triple and five RBIs. Puerto Rico went 3-1 in the opening round but fell to Mexico in the quarterfinals.

It’s not clear who will replace Lindor as captain.

The debridement procedure marked Lindor’s third offseason surgery with the Mets after he had a bone spur removed from his right elbow in 2023 and an appendectomy the year before.

The Mets are expected to have some representation in the WBC, even with Lindor sitting this one out. Right-handed pitchers Clay Holmes and Nolan McLean have confirmed they will be on Team USA’s staff.

Francisco Lindor of Team Puerto Rico fields a hit against Team Mexico during the eighth inning in the World Baseball Classic Quarterfinals game at loanDepot park on March 17, 2023 in Miami, Florida. Getty Images

Outfielder Juan Soto, who played for the Dominican Republic last tournament, said in May that he hoped to represent his country again but did not confirm his commitment.

Newly acquired third baseman Bo Bichette, fresh off signing a three-year deal worth $126 million with the Amazin’s, reportedly mulled an opportunity to play for Team Brazil but will not participate, according to ESPN Brasil.

All 20 rosters will be announced on Thursday during a live show on MLB Network at 7 p.m. ET.