Overview
- Polanco was reinstated to the active roster and started as the designated hitter on Tuesday, July 7, marking his return after nearly three months on the injured list.
- The club plans to use him primarily as a part-time DH to take advantage of his switch‑hitting power while limiting stress on his left Achilles.
- Polanco missed the bulk of the season with left Achilles bursitis and a right wrist contusion, underwent platelet‑rich injection treatment, and paused then resumed a Triple‑A rehab that produced two late homers.
- To open a roster spot for Polanco the Mets optioned infielder Ronny Mauricio to Triple‑A Syracuse and also moved pitchers on and off the roster as they shuffle a depleted group.
- Polanco’s two‑year, $40 million signing was intended to replace Pete Alonso at first base, but his defensive availability remains day‑to‑day and his long‑term impact will depend on how his Achilles responds and whether surgery is needed this offseason.