Jorge Polanco Signs Two-Year Deal as Mets Move to Fill First Base Gap

The New York Mets have signed Jorge Polanco to a two-year, $40 million contract. The deal was confirmed by league sources on Saturday in New York. Polanco is expected to take over at first base after Pete Alonso left for the Baltimore Orioles. The move gives the Mets an experienced bat as they enter the 2025 season.

The Mets made the move fast after losing Alonso. They needed a steady hitter with power. Polanco had a strong year in 2025. He hit 26 home runs and showed he can still carry an offense. According to Reuters, the Mets see him as a key part of their lineup.

Jorge Polanco Gives Mets Power After Alonso Exit

Polanco has played in the majors for 12 years. He has never played first base in the big leagues. That makes this move bold. The Mets believe his athletic skill will help him adjust fast.

The team saw him rise again last season after a slow 2024. He posted an .821 OPS and became a steady hitter for Seattle. He also hit two home runs in the playoffs and helped drive the Mariners’ offense. His bat stayed hot until the club fell to Toronto in the ALCS.

The Mets now hope his switch-hitting power will balance their lineup. They also need a player who can stay on the field. Polanco has battled injuries in past seasons. The Mets believe he can remain healthy with some rest days as a designated hitter.

The front office has tried moves like this before. They trust that infielders with good hands can learn first base. They point to past cases in Milwaukee under David Stearns. The team sees this as a calculated risk with upside.

How the Move Reshapes the Mets’ 2025 Plans

This signing changes the Mets’ depth chart. Polanco can play second or third base if needed. But his main job will be first base. He will replace a power hitter who was also a team leader. That creates pressure right away.

The Mets are betting on his offense to carry him early in the season. They also hope his steady approach will help younger players. Polanco has long been seen as a calm clubhouse presence. That will matter as the team tries to stay competitive in a tough division.

Fans now want to know if he can handle the job. First base demands clean footwork and quick reactions. It is different from what Polanco has done for most of his career. The team will watch his progress closely in spring training.

If the move works, the Mets gain a strong hitter at a fair cost. If not, they may need to look for other options by mid-season. For now, the club sees Polanco as their best path forward.

The Mets will count on Jorge Polanco to fill a major gap and bring power back to first base. His success at this new position will shape much of the team’s 2025 season.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: What position will Jorge Polanco play for the Mets?

He is expected to play first base. He has never played there in the majors, but the Mets trust he can adjust. His bat is the main reason for the move.

Q2: Why did the Mets sign Polanco?

The Mets needed a strong hitter after Pete Alonso left. Polanco had a good 2025 season and brings power from both sides of the plate. The team believes he fits their lineup needs.

Q3: How did Polanco perform last season?

He hit 26 home runs and had an .821 OPS. He also helped his team in the postseason with two home runs in the ALDS. His bat stayed steady for most of the year.

Q4: Is Polanco experienced at first base?

No, he has not played the position in the majors. The Mets think his athletic skill will help him learn it. Spring training will be a key test.

Q5: What happens if Polanco struggles at first base?

The Mets can use him as a designated hitter. They may also shift him around the infield. The team could explore new options if needed.