NEW YORK. — Dominican Jorge Polanco continues to take positive steps in his recovery process with the New York Mets, after standing out offensively during his rehabilitation assignment in Double-A Binghamton.
You might be interested in: Elly de la Cruz placed on injured list; Reds call up prospect Edwin Arroyo
The veteran infielder hit two home runs over the weekend and also saw action for the first time at first base, an encouraging sign for the New York organization as it awaits the return of one of its key offensive pieces.
Polanco has been out of action since April 18 due to discomfort in his left Achilles tendon, an injury to which a right wrist contusion was later added.
The Dominican player appeared in three games with Binghamton and managed to pass two important tests in his recovery: playing on consecutive days and playing first base, the position for which he was signed by the Mets before the season.
In his first rehab games, Polanco went 2-for-5, including two home runs, in addition to drawing two walks.
Although he has not yet completed a full game, the Mets’ coaching staff considers that the player is progressing satisfactorily and could be nearing an eventual return to the Major Leagues.
More Read
Venezuelan manager Carlos Mendoza explained that the team’s priority has been to evaluate how the player responds physically after high-intensity activities.
“The most important thing is that it hasn’t gotten worse. He has been able to tolerate physical work well and feels he is ready to compete,” Mendoza expressed regarding the Dominican’s status.
Polanco signed a two-year, $40 million contract with the Mets to take over first base following the departure of Pete Alonso, although injuries have limited his impact at the start of the campaign.
Before entering the injured list, the switch-hitter was batting .179 with one home run in 14 games.
The Mets hope that Polanco’s return can strengthen an offense that has shown inconsistencies during the first weeks of the season, as the team continues to fight for one of the wild card spots in the National League.
