Thursday was a tough day for injured MLB stars, leaving fans of the New York Mets and Seattle Mariners with more questions than answers. Two of the league's biggest names—Francisco Lindor and Cal Raleigh—remain sidelined, and the latest updates offer only cautious optimism.

For the Mets, superstar shortstop Francisco Lindor has been out since April 22 with a calf strain. Calf injuries are notoriously tricky, especially given their connection to the Achilles tendon, so every update matters. On Thursday, there was a glimmer of hope: Anthony DiComo of MLB.com reported that Lindor's latest MRI showed "signs of healing." However, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza tempered expectations, noting that Lindor is "not close to baseball activities" and therefore "not close at all to a return." The Mets also had a scare when Juan Soto left a game early, but he avoided any serious injury—a small relief for a team already dealing with uncertainty.

Meanwhile, across the country, the Seattle Mariners are facing their own injury puzzle. Catcher Cal Raleigh has been grinding through an oblique strain for two weeks, but according to MLB.com's Daniel Kramer, there's still no timetable for his return. Oblique strains are particularly troublesome for switch-hitters and catchers, as they can linger and affect both swinging and throwing. Kramer noted that Raleigh will undergo a more thorough evaluation when the team returns to Seattle, but for now, the Mariners are left waiting.

For fans of both teams, patience is key. Lindor's calf is healing, but slowly; Raleigh's oblique needs careful monitoring. As the season heats up, these updates serve as a reminder that injuries can reshape a team's trajectory. Whether you're a Mets or Mariners supporter, keep an eye on the recovery process—and maybe stock up on some extra gear to show your support while the stars heal up.