Mets Place Former All-Star Back on IL Amid Disastrous Season

The New York Mets have placed former All-Star Jorge Polanco on the 10-day injured list with left ankle bursitis, marking his second stint on the disabled list this season. Interim manager Andy Green revealed Polanco is set to undergo surgery following his continued struggle with pain. The Mets have opted to recall Eric Wagaman, who was previously sent down to Triple-A Syracuse less than two weeks ago.

Additionally, the team made a bullpen adjustment, optioning relief pitcher Jack Weisenburger to Triple-A while bringing up Chayce McDermott.

Polanco, who primarily played second base, was initially signed by the Mets with the goal of replacing the long-standing first baseman Pete Alonso. However, Polanco's performance has significantly hindered the team's lineup. Alonso has rebounded to lead the league with 28 home runs and a .854 OPS while playing for the Baltimore Orioles.

Polanco, who previously hit 26 home runs for the Seattle Mariners, now stands at a dismal .148/.201/.230 with two home runs in 145 plate appearances. He has only appeared in two games at first base and has spent the majority of his time as a designated hitter.

Polanco's fielding independent pitching statistic of -1.4 ranks among the worst in Major League Baseball, alongside Salvador Perez and recently demoted Noelvi Marte. His current batting average of .127 (10-for-79) with 25 strikeouts over 23 games since returning from a left Achilles injury has been a stark contrast to his career .259/.326/.435 average, including an All-Star selection with the Minnesota Twins in 2019.

The Mets are particularly concerned about Polanco's impact on their lineup, given his $23 million contract for the 2027 season.

In an effort to cope with Polanco's absence, the Mets have recalled Eric Wagaman, who has a .190/.277/.333 batting average in 47 big league plate appearances. With Polanco sidelined, the Mets may choose to play catcher Francisco Alvarez at designated hitter while starting the rising star Luis Torrens behind the plate.