Lindor has clean MRI, could return by weekend

The New York Mets got good news regarding Francisco Lindor, as an MRI of the star shortstop's ailing back came back negative, according to SNY's John Harper.

Lindor is not playing on Monday and still needs a few more days before slotting back in. However, he's expecting to return before the regular season ends.

"I'm (doing) great," the 30-year-old told reporters, per SNY. "I still have a little bit of pain, but we have good news. Everything seems like it's good. It could be three-to-five days (until I return) or it could be two-to-three. (It) depends how my back reacts. The trainers, they have an amazing gameplan, and then it's going to be up to (manager Carlos Mendoza) and if I feel OK to play."

Lindor exited Friday's game in Philadelphia after jamming his back and missed his first game of the season the next day. He was a late addition to Sunday's lineup but was removed after one inning due to back discomfort, leading to additional testing.

"Honestly, (I'm) relieved," Mendoza said about the test results. "Really good news, 'cause we didn't know what was gonna happen. ... I was expecting the worst, to be honest with you."

Lindor has been a force for the surprising Mets at shortstop, hitting .271/.342/.494 with 31 homers and 86 RBIs in 148 games this season. The four-time All-Star is three steals away from posting his second straight 30-30 campaign.

The Mets' surge over the last few months, led in large part by Lindor, has vaulted them right back into the NL wild-card race. New York enters play Monday in a tie with Atlanta for the final playoff spot, despite losing two in a row.

Jose Iglesias will man shortstop and hit leadoff for the Mets on Monday against the Washington Nationals. Rookie Luisangel Acuña could also start at the position while Lindor is sidelined.