Get ready for some exciting baseball news! The Mets have made a significant move by signing free agent infielder Jorge Polanco, and it's a game-changer for the team. With a two-year contract worth $40 million, Polanco is set to bring some much-needed power to the Mets' lineup.
But here's where it gets controversial... The Mets have been dealing with some key losses recently, including Pete Alonso and Edwin Diaz, who both left for free agency. To make matters more interesting, they also traded away longtime Met Brandon Nimmo. However, the acquisition of Marcus Semien in the Nimmo deal provides a solid foundation.
Polanco, a 32-year-old veteran, had an impressive season with the Mariners last year, hitting .265 with 26 home runs. His performance was a major boost for the Mariners, who narrowly missed out on the World Series. After a down year in 2024, Polanco bounced back strongly, and his 2025 campaign was his best yet, with a career-high 132 wRC+.
One concern, though, is Polanco's designated hitter (DH) role. He made 89 appearances as a DH last season, a significant increase from his previous years. An oblique injury early in the season may have contributed to this change, but the Mets plan to use him primarily as a first baseman and DH.
And this is the part most people miss... Polanco has very little experience at first base, with only one career appearance at the position. The Mets believe he can adapt, but it's a risky move. Nonetheless, with Alonso's departure, Polanco's defensive skills could be a welcome upgrade.
The signing of Polanco doesn't rule out the Mets pursuing other targets like Cody Bellinger or Willson Contreras. With Semien already in place, the Mets are looking to strengthen their infield and improve their run prevention.
MLB Trade Rumors ranked Polanco highly among free agents, predicting a three-year, $42 million deal. Polanco's two-year contract with the Mets is almost as lucrative, and it sets him up for another big free agent bid in a few years.
The Mets' president of operations, David Stearns, is known for preferring shorter-term commitments, and this deal aligns with his roster-building strategy. Other teams, like the Pirates and Red Sox, were also interested in Polanco, but the Mets secured the deal.
With Polanco now in Queens, the Mariners may turn their attention to Eugenio Suarez as a DH candidate.
So, what do you think? Is Polanco's signing a smart move for the Mets? Or do you think they should have pursued other options? Let's discuss in the comments!
