Polanco's Comeback to Mets Amid Team Struggles After Injury

WHO:

MLB.com - Jorge Polanco, Mets’ $40 million offseason signing.

MLB.com - Interim manager Andy Green.

MLB.com - Ronny Mauricio, Francisco Alvarez, Luis Torrens, Juan Soto, Francisco Lindor, Jared Young, Mark Vientos, and Nick Loftin mentioned as players involved.

WHAT:

MLB.com - Jorge Polanco made his return to the Mets after being on the injured list since April due to Achilles issues.

MLB.com - Polanco hit two home runs in his final three games with Triple-A Syracuse before his return.

MLB.com - Polanco has 155 career homers and a .768 OPS.

MLB.com - The Mets optioned Ronny Mauricio to Triple-A Syracuse as a corresponding roster move.

MLB.com - Polanco will primarily play as a designated hitter (DH) and will not start every day.

WHERE:

MLB.com - Polanco returned to the Mets at Citi Field during a three-game series against the Royals.

WHEN:

MLB.com - Polanco returned on a Tuesday night.

MLB.com - Polanco remains under contract through 2027.

WHY:

MLB.com - The Mets signed Polanco to replace Pete Alonso at first base, although he did not take any reps there during his rehab assignment.

MLB.com - Polanco's activation was based on his recent performance and the need for a strong bat in the lineup.

HOW:

MLB.com - Polanco managed his Achilles discomfort through pain management and increased good days allowed him to restart his rehab assignment.

MLB.com - Polanco will continue to take pregame ground balls at first base to prepare for potential future play at that position.

Jorge Polanco has made his return to the Mets after a stint on the injured list due to Achilles issues, and he will primarily serve as a designated hitter. The Mets optioned Ronny Mauricio to Triple-A Syracuse to make room for Polanco, who recently hit two home runs in his last three games with Triple-A Syracuse and has a career total of 155 homers. As the Mets look to strengthen their lineup, Polanco remains under contract through 2027 and will continue to prepare for potential play at first base.