There’s something magical about coming home to your kids after achieving something you’ve dreamed about your entire career. Francisco Lindor knows this feeling all too well, and honestly, what happened when he walked through his front door might just be the most heartwarming baseball story you’ll hear this year. The Mets‘ shortstop had just experienced one of those career-defining moments that every player chases, but the real celebration? That was waiting for him at home with three little faces beaming with pride.

Want to guess what made this achievement so special? After learning the news before Game 2 of the day-night doubleheader against the Brewers, Lindor called his family, including his wife, Katia, and his mother, Maria Serrano. The 31-year-old was named the National League’s starting shortstop for the All-Star Game, capping off an incredible first half of the season. Fans across the country recognized his elite performance and chose him to represent the National League.

But here’s where the story gets even better. “We had an arts ‘n crafts project waiting at home for our All Star after his game,” Katia captioned the video, which featured daughters Kalina and Amapola holding up a sign that read, “Congrats All Star (Papa).” Picture this: while Lindor was out there making spectacular plays and clutch hits, his little girls were at home carefully crafting a congratulatory sign with their own hands. The homemade artwork wasn’t just a random project – it was a heartfelt celebration designed specifically for their dad’s All-Star selection. Well, you know? There’s something incredibly pure about kids celebrating their parents’ success with construction paper, markers, and endless love.

This isn’t the first time Lindor’s family has celebrated his All-Star achievements, but it hits differently now. Lindor married his wife Katia (née Reguero) on December 16, 2021, in Miami, Florida, and they have three children together. His previous All-Star appearances came at different stages of his family life, but now his kids are at that perfect age where they can fully grasp what daddy does for a living and why it matters. Tbh, it makes sense why this moment feels more meaningful than his previous selections – watching your children understand and celebrate your success creates memories that last forever. The timing couldn’t be more perfect for creating these precious family moments.

Francisco Lindor’s All-Star recognition comes at the perfect time for the struggling Mets

Want to take a guess why this All-Star selection feels like perfect timing? Just when the Mets needed their superstar most, Lindor delivered in spectacular fashion during Tuesday’s doubleheader finale against the Milwaukee Brewers. The newly minted All-Star went 3-for-4 with a home run and three RBI, single-handedly helping secure a crucial 7-3 victory that salvaged the night. This explosive performance was exactly what fans had been waiting for, especially after watching Lindor struggle offensively since suffering that brutal broken toe injury in Los Angeles last month.

Here’s the thing about Lindor’s recent struggles – they directly mirror the Mets’ downturn. He hit just .204 with four home runs and 10 RBI in June, with only two home runs and five RBI after returning to the lineup in Colorado on June 6th. SNY displayed a remarkable stat during their telecast, showing just how valuable Lindor has been: the Mets have largely gone based on how he’s performed. Lindor generated an OPS of 1.006 in wins (superstar level) while his .460 OPS in losses is well below average.

While Juan Soto got hot for the Mets in June and took home the National League’s Player of the Month honors, his performance wasn’t enough to elevate the team through a rough slump by itself. Well, you know? Lindor, who was the runner-up for National League MVP honors last season, has proven he’s the engine that drives this team. They need him firing on all cylinders to reach their 2025 goals.