David Wright underwent lower back surgery, the Mets announced on Thursday, effectively erasing any lingering questions about whether the team captain intends to keep pushing for a return despite numerous setbacks.
"My desire to play is as strong as ever," Wright said in a statement released by the team.
Wright, 34, underwent a laminotomy in Los Angeles. The procedure is designed to relieve pressure and is commonly associated with the condition spinal stenosis, which he has dealt with since 2105.
It is Wright's third surgical procedure since May 2016, the last time he stepped foot on a big-league field. It follows neck surgery in 2016 to treat a herniated disc and rotator cuff surgery in September.
Wright has no plans to retire.
"Through this entire rehab process, I have been driven to get back on the field as quickly as I can," Wright said. "That's why I had the shoulder surgery and that's why today I underwent back surgery to reduce the risk of further issues going forward. With these two surgeries behind me, I hope to be able to put on a Mets uniform again as soon as possible."
