The Mets might be a good baseball team but probably would not be a good basketball team.
In a play that more belonged on a court than on a field, Francisco Lindor was faked out, allowing the Royals to steal a base in Saturday’s third inning at Citi Field.
Garrett Hampson, a speedy center fielder who had reached on a push-bunt, appeared to be picked off by Sean Manaea.
The Mets lefty threw to Pete Alonso with Hampson caught in between the bases, but Alonso threw wildly to Lindor at second base.
Lindor had to lunge for the ball, catching it with his back to Hampson.
Hampson deked to his right and then veered to the inside of the bag, with Lindor trying to apply a tag that never came.
Hampson successfully eluded Lindor and became steal No. 22 this season against the Mets, who have yet to record a caught-stealing.
As it turned out, the play did not ultimately matter.
Dairon Blanco flew out to end the frame.
