PORT ST. LUCIE — Jorge Polanco, a longtime middle infielder, is working to master the footwork needed to play first base as part of the Mets’ new defensive alignment. Though comfortable fielding ground balls and handling routine plays near first base, Polanco remains uncertain about the more extreme maneuvers required, such as sliding into the splits, which he has yet to attempt. His willingness to adapt highlights the shifting demands on MLB players in a game increasingly focused on versatility.
Mets Reconfigure Infield Positions to Strengthen Defense
This offseason, the Mets reshaped their defense by moving Polanco from his traditional middle infield spot to first base, while Bo Bichette transitions to third base. Adding to the team’s positional flexibility, Brett Baty is expanding his skill set to include first base and outfield responsibilities alongside his usual spots at second and third base. The Mets’ strategic moves prioritize run prevention by maximizing players’ versatility across the diamond.
Versatility Gains Critical Importance in Modern Baseball
Polanco, now a nine-year MLB veteran with previous experience on the Minnesota Twins and Seattle Mariners, has observed how the game values multi-positional players in an era when rosters are often loaded with pitchers rather than position players. His ability to cover multiple spots makes him more valuable to the team and helps managers optimize lineups and defensive alignments based on matchups or injuries. This growing trend toward positional flexibility influences both player longevity and team strategy significantly.
“It’s good to see all these guys trying to learn a new position,”
Polanco said.
This game is getting versatile. The more versatile you are, the better chance you have to play.”
– Jorge Polanco, Mets first baseman
Polanco’s Personal Initiative to Prepare for New Role
The change to first base was Polanco’s own idea during his tenure with Seattle, even if the Mariners ultimately kept him in the middle infield. He actively sought instruction from coaches to refine his skills at first base, building on his infield foundation. By the time the Mets signed him to a two-year contract in December, Polanco had already started training specifically for the demands of first base, aiming to transition smoothly and solidify his role on the team.
“I’m in a good spot with ground balls. I’m used to taking ground balls at short, second and third, so I think that’s going to be the easiest part for me,”
Polanco explained.
The hardest part is moving my feet at first base and reading the throws.”
– Jorge Polanco, Mets first baseman
Challenges of Adjusting Footwork and Using the Bag
Polanco acknowledges that the footwork required at first base is unique, especially the need to maneuver around and on the bag in ways unfamiliar to traditional infielders. The team does not expect him to arrive at spring camp with advanced footwork, just as it did with Bichette’s move to third base. Polanco is focused on stretching his range by utilizing the corners of the first base bag effectively to maximize defensive coverage and minimize the margin of error.
“As we know, this is a game of inches,”
Polanco noted.
I’m trying to stay on the bag the longest I can, using the corners of the bag. Those are the types of things I’ve been working on. That’s why they say moving my feet is going to be the hardest. So I’m just trying to use the bag, use the corners, and just gain as much room as I can.”
– Jorge Polanco, Mets first baseman
Physical Preparation and Readiness Amid Injury Recovery
Currently, Polanco participates in spring training workouts on a typical schedule, yet he has not seen game action. He is focused on maintaining strength in his left knee, which underwent a patellar tendon repair two offseasons ago and still requires care. Despite this, Polanco is eager to test his progress in live games during Grapefruit League play and to gauge his ability to perform more demanding plays such as the splits.
“We’re working on my body, we’re working on my body, so I think I’m going to be ready when the time comes for me to do a split,”
Polanco stated.
I’ll be able to do it.”
– Jorge Polanco, Mets first baseman
Mets Begin Spring Season with Promising Performances
The Mets recently defeated the New York Yankees 6-4 in Tampa, with right-hander Justin Hagenman holding the Yankees to one run on two hits while striking out three over 2 1/3 innings. Offensive contributions came from catchers Luis Torrens and Hayden Senger, who both homered, as did left fielder Jared Young. These encouraging early performances provide momentum for the team as it adjusts defensively and prepares for the full season.
Implications of Polanco’s Position Shift for Career Longevity
For Polanco, embracing a new position at first base offers the potential to extend his MLB career by increasing his value to the Mets beyond his established infielder role. For the Mets, his transition represents a broader strategy to enhance roster flexibility and defensive efficiency, crucial in a league where positional versatility often determines playing time and team success. As the season progresses, Polanco’s development at first base will be a key storyline to watch within the team’s evolving infield dynamics.
