Mike Francesa Attributes Mets Feud to Political Divisions Over Trump
NEW YORK, N.Y. — A political rift over former President Donald Trump reportedly played a role in the discord between New York Mets teammates Francisco Lindor and Brandon Nimmo, according to veteran sports radio personality Mike Francesa. Francesa, a longtime voice in New York sports broadcasting, revealed on his podcast Tuesday that the feud between the Mets’ star shortstop and outfielder was fueled by contrasting political views within the clubhouse.
“The Nimmo-Lindor thing, my understanding, was political, had to do with Trump,” Francesa said. “One side liked Trump, one side didn’t like Trump.” While Francesa did not specify which player supported or opposed Trump, he emphasized that the divide was significant enough to affect team dynamics.
Brandon Nimmo, who was traded to the Texas Rangers on November 23 after waiving his no-trade clause, had been a key figure in the Mets lineup, known for his consistent offensive production and leadership. His departure marked a notable shift in the Mets’ roster during a tumultuous offseason that also saw the exits of fan favorites Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz. These three players had formed the core of the Mets’ playoff runs in 2022 and 2024.
The trade brought second baseman Marcus Semien to New York, a move that has drawn attention due to Semien’s veteran status and lower home run output compared to Nimmo’s career-high 25 homers last season. The Mets’ front office has yet to publicly address Francesa’s claims or provide insight into the clubhouse atmosphere.
Francesa’s comments highlight how political divisions have increasingly intersected with sports, sometimes spilling over into team relationships. This phenomenon is not unique to baseball; across professional sports, athletes and organizations have navigated the challenges of political expression and differing beliefs.
For more on team dynamics and political influence in sports, see the National Hockey League Players’ Association and their policies on player conduct. The USA.gov sports section offers resources on the intersection of sports and society, while the FBI’s civil rights division monitors hate crimes and related tensions that can affect public figures and athletes alike.
As the Mets prepare for the 2026 season, the team faces the challenge of rebuilding chemistry and focus amid a changing roster and lingering questions about internal divisions. The situation underscores the broader cultural conversations playing out in locker rooms across the country, where politics and personal beliefs increasingly shape the narratives surrounding athletes and their teams.
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