Mets ‘concerned’ about Francisco Lindor’s back pain

PHILADELPHIA — If there’s one thing the Mets can’t afford as they try to secure a playoff spot, it’s losing Francisco Lindor.

While the shortstop and Carlos Mendoza are confident the back pain that knocked Lindor out of Friday’s 11-3 win over the Phillies is not serious, the Mets will undoubtedly hold their breath until he returns to the field.

“It takes a lot to take Francisco out of a game,” Brandon Nimmo said. “We are certainly worried about him. We know he’s obviously an important part of this team. We wouldn’t be here without him.”

Lindor suffered the injury in the top of the sixth when he stepped awkwardly on second base after his base hit to center scored Harrison Bader to give the Mets a 7-0 lead.

Lindor said he didn’t expect the throw to come to second as quickly, and by the time he realized it was coming, it was too late for him to slide.

He got off base and was caught in a breakdown between second and third before sliding and being tagged out.

Lindor stayed in the game and played defense in the bottom of the evening before being ejected in the next inning.

On whether he expected to play Saturday, Lindor said: “I hope so. I pride myself on being available every day.”

In a closer game, Lindor said she probably would have stayed on the court, but the team opted not to push her.

Mendoza called Lindor every day. He has played in every game this season.

Asked if he was worried the soreness might cost him time, Lindor said, “I hope not,” adding that he was still “tight” after the win.

He received treatment late in the game and said he’ll see how he feels when he wakes up Saturday before he and the Mets decide whether he’ll return to the lineup.

With Lindor out, Jose Iglesias moved from second base to shortstop and rookie Eddy Alvarez entered the game at second.

The Mets don’t have a true backup and are already monitoring Iglesias’ playing time at second base with Jeff McNeil out for the regular season.