The New York Mets are making a bold move to bolster their lineup, signing veteran infielder Jorge Polanco to a two-year, $40 million contract. This signing comes as a surprise to many, given the recent departures of key players from the Mets' roster.
A Major Acquisition:
The Mets have secured Polanco's services, as reported by The Athletic's Will Sammon and ESPN's Jeff Passan. This move is significant as the Mets have lost star players Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz to free agency and traded Brandon Nimmo in the past month. The team is clearly aiming to rebuild and strengthen their core.
Polanco, a 32-year-old infielder, had a stellar 2025 season with the Mariners, posting a career-best 132 wRC+ and reducing his strikeout rate significantly. His advanced metrics indicate a genuine resurgence, and his .269 BABIP suggests he could have achieved even more. However, a concern arises from his 89 appearances as a designated hitter last season, a role he hadn't frequently played before.
Position Flexibility:
The Mets plan to utilize Polanco primarily as a first baseman and DH, despite his extensive experience at second and third base. This decision might be influenced by his age and modest defensive numbers at those positions, especially with the exceptional fielder Marcus Semien already at second base. Interestingly, Polanco has only played first base once in his professional career, a brief appearance last April.
But here's where it gets controversial: the Mets' strategy could be a calculated risk. By signing Polanco, they maintain flexibility in pursuing other free agents like Cody Bellinger or Willson Contreras, who could further enhance the lineup. This move also doesn't hinder their ability to add more power hitters during the offseason.
Contract Details and Future Plans:
Polanco's contract is slightly shorter than expected, aligning with Mets president David Stearns' preference for shorter-term commitments. This could set Polanco up for another free agency bid at 34, potentially securing another lucrative deal if he maintains his production. The Pirates, Red Sox, and even the Mariners were in the running for Polanco's services, but the Mets' offer proved more enticing.
With Polanco now in New York, the Mariners might shift their focus to other infield options, including Eugenio Suarez. The Mets, meanwhile, have demonstrated their commitment to improving their defense and overall lineup, even if it means taking a chance on a player with a unique skill set and positional history.
What do you think about the Mets' strategy? Is signing Polanco a smart move, or should they have focused on other areas? Share your thoughts in the comments, especially if you have a different take on this intriguing signing!
