The Mets officially signed Jorge Polanco on Tuesday night. Shortly after securing Polanco on a two-year, $40 million deal, Mets’ director of baseball operations, David Stearns, shared his thoughts on the acquisition in a press release, highlighting how the team plans to utilize the 32-year-old player.
“We are thrilled to bring Jorge into our organization and anticipate him playing a significant role over the next two years,” Stearns said. “Jorge’s athleticism and flexibility on both offense and defense make him an ideal fit as we continue to build a stronger team. We expect him to handle first base, DH duties, and cover other positions as needed.”
Following Pete Alonso’s recent signing with the Orioles, the Mets added Polanco, enhancing their versatility by allowing him to cover first base—a position Polanco has played only once in his 12-year career. Last season, Polanco appeared in 138 games for the Mariners, batting .265/.326/.495 with 30 doubles, 26 home runs, and 78 RBIs. While he may not match Alonso’s power at the plate, Polanco offers Stearns and the Mets valuable options to round out their lineup.
Other first base candidates remain available in free agency, including experienced players like Paul Goldschmidt, Luis Arraez, and Cody Bellinger. The Mets currently hold a “huge advantage” with players like Polanco who can play both outfield and first base. However, the team still has needs this offseason in the outfield, starting rotation, and bullpen.
Fan Take: This signing signals the Mets’ strategic focus on flexibility and depth, which is crucial in today’s unpredictable baseball landscape. Polanco’s versatility could be a game-changer, offering fans an exciting, multi-dimensional player to watch as the team pursues championship success.
