BREAKING NEWS: Francisco Lindor Sparks Controversy by Declaring Himself the MLB GOAT — Dismisses Troy Tulowitzki Comparison as “an Insult”

Baseball Twitter went into meltdown mode Monday morning as New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor made perhaps his boldest declaration yet. During a sit-down interview on the “All Bases Covered” podcast, Lindor was asked about comparisons to former Colorado Rockies star Troy Tulowitzki — and he didn’t mince words.

“I’m better than Troy Tulowitzki,” Lindor said bluntly. “Comparing him to me is an insult to years of hard work. I’m the GOAT of the MLB — period.”

That mic-drop moment immediately lit a fuse across the baseball world. Tulowitzki, a five-time All-Star and one of the most talented shortstops of his era, was a fan favorite known for his glove, power, and grit — but also for a career cut short by injuries. The comparison, once a compliment, was now framed as disrespectful.

“Tulo” vs “Mr. Smile”: Tale of the Tape

Troy Tulowitzki (2006–2019):

• 5× All-Star

• 2× Gold Glove

• .290 career batting average during his peak years (2009–2014)

• Widely regarded as one of the most complete shortstops of his generation before injuries derailed his career

Francisco Lindor (2015–present):

• 4× All-Star

• 2× Gold Glove, 2× Silver Slugger

• Switch-hitting threat, elite defense, consistent power

• Current career stats: .274 AVG / 210+ HR / .803 OPS

Statistically, Lindor holds the edge in longevity and power numbers, but many argue Tulowitzki was on a Hall of Fame trajectory before chronic injuries intervened.

The Reaction? Explosive.

Within minutes of the interview dropping, reactions from fans, analysts, and former players poured in.

“Tulo never got a fair shot at a full career,” one fan tweeted. “But at his peak? He was better than Lindor. Respect the legacy.”

Others backed Lindor:

“Lindor’s played longer, stayed healthy, and done it on both sides of the ball. He’s earned his confidence.”

Even former MLB players entered the chat. One-time teammate and current ESPN analyst Mark Teixeira weighed in:

“Tulo’s ceiling was high — really high. But Lindor’s putting together a more complete career. Still, GOAT talk? That’s spicy.”

 

Lindor Stands His Ground

As criticism swirled online, Lindor doubled down on his comments in a follow-up Instagram story, saying:

“I respect everyone who came before me. But I’m not playing this game to be second best. If I don’t believe I’m the greatest, who will?”

He also included a clip of a game-winning homer he hit against the Phillies, paired with the caption: “Keep the receipts.”

It’s not the first time Lindor has made waves with bold takes. But declaring himself the “GOAT” — while dismissing comparisons to a beloved former star — felt like new territory, even for fans used to his flair.

What Does Tulowitzki Think?

While Troy Tulowitzki has kept a low profile since retiring in 2019 and now works as a college coach, sources say he was “surprised” by Lindor’s remarks. No official statement has been made, but a former teammate told The Athletic:

“Tulo isn’t the type to clap back. He lets his game — and his legacy — speak for itself. But yeah, that one stung.”

GOAT or Just Confident?

The bigger question arising from this debate isn’t just about Tulowitzki — it’s about Lindor’s legacy. Can he really be considered the GOAT of Major League Baseball?

Fans were quick to bring up names like Cal Ripken Jr., Derek Jeter, Alex Rodriguez, and Honus Wagner — shortstops whose careers reshaped the position.

And of course, if we’re talking overall “GOAT” status, names like Babe Ruth, Barry Bonds, Willie Mays, and Mike Trout dominate the conversation.

But that doesn’t mean Lindor’s claim is empty.

“Lindor’s got the swagger, the numbers, and the leadership,” said former player and analyst Harold Reynolds. “If he keeps this up for another 5–7 years, he’ll have a legitimate shot at the Hall. But GOAT? That’s a heavy crown.”

Final Word

In an era where athletes are expected to back themselves, Francisco Lindor has taken confidence to a new level. His comments may not win over every fan, but they certainly reinforce his status as one of baseball’s most captivating — and polarizing — stars.

Whether or not he’s better than Troy Tulowitzki may be up for debate.

But one thing’s for sure: Lindor’s not backing down.