Mets Eye Jorge Polanco’s Unexpected Role Shift—Could This Gamble Redefine Their Season?

So, the Mets officially put pen to paper with Jorge Polanco this Tuesday night — a move that’s stirred up quite the chatter around the league. Just days after the whispers about a two-year, $40 million deal surfaced, Mets’ baseball czar David Stearns stepped up with a statement that unpacked what this signing really means for the team’s blueprint. At 32, Polanco isn’t just another name on the roster; his agility and ability to seamlessly slide into multiple roles is what Stearns is banking on. The plan? First base, designated hitter duties, and a bit of positional musical chairs as needed. It’s a fascinating pivot, especially coming off last week’s news of Pete Alonso heading to Baltimore. Polanco’s only logged a single game at first base over his dozen-year trek, so this shift feels like a strategic chess move rather than a straightforward replacement.

Last season with the Mariners, Polanco put up solid numbers—.265 average, with 26 homers and 78 RBIs in 138 games—which won’t exactly match Alonso’s fireworks but certainly adds layers to the Mets’ lineup options. Meanwhile, the free agent market still brims with seasoned talents like Paul Goldschmidt, Luis Arraez, and Cody Bellinger—players who bring their own unique versatility to the table and have caught the Mets’ eye. Yet, the team’s offseason recipe isn’t just about first base; there’s a patchwork of needs demanding attention—from the outfield to the pitching staff’s starting rotation and bullpen. Buckle up, because this offseason could get real interesting for New York baseball fans.LEARN MORE

The Mets made the Jorge Polanco signing official on Tuesday evening.

Days after New York signed Polanco to a reported two-year, $40 million deal, Mets president of baseball operations David Stearns talked up his acquisition in a press release, and gave some insight into how he anticipates the team to use the 32-year-old.

“We are excited to add Jorge to our organization and expect him to be a big part of our team over the next two years,” Stearns said in a press release. “Jorge’s athleticism and versatility on both sides of the ball make him a perfect fit as we continue to build out our team. As we stand now, we would anticipate Jorge playing first base, DH, and bouncing around to other positions as needed.”

After Pete Alonso signed with the Orioles last week, the Mets signed Polanco to give the team more versatility and to play first base. Interestingly enough, Polanco has appeared in just one game at the position in his 12-year career.

Polanco slashed .265/.326/.495 with 30 doubles, 26 homers, 78 RBI in 138 games last year with the Mariners, and while he’s not expected to deliver the offensive production of Alonso, it gives Stearns and the Mets options to fill out the rest of the roster.

There are currently still other viable first base options in the free agent market, including veterans Paul Goldschmidt and Luis Arraez. There is also Cody Bellinger, who plays both outfield and first base, who is still available and the Mets are currently “very in” on.

But the Mets do have other areas of need this offseason, including in the outfield, starting rotation and bullpen.