The Mets are taking a calculated risk on Jorge Polanco at first base. Stearns' confidence in Polanco stems from their extensive research, including watching him play and working out with Mariners coaches Perry Hill and Manny Acta. While it's true that Polanco has only played first base for one pitch in his 12-year career, Stearns believes he can adapt to the position.
Polanco's defensive skills might be better suited for first base than other positions, as his arm is weaker but more reliable when positioned at first. Additionally, his hands and baseball instincts could translate well to the position. However, concerns remain about Polanco's speed, which may become less of an issue at first base compared to third.
The Mets' decision to sign Polanco may also be influenced by their interest in top prospect Ryan Clifford, who touched Triple-A Syracuse last season. If Polanco struggles, he could transition into a more DH-oriented role, allowing Clifford to solidify his spot at the position.
Other potential free agent options for first base include Ty France, Cody Bellinger, Luis Arráez, Rhys Hoskins, and Paul Goldschmidt. The Mets may also consider trade possibilities like Christian Walker from the Astros or Ryan Mountcastle from the Orioles.
Kai Correa's appointment as bench coach could provide Polanco with additional guidance on his new role. However, it remains to be seen whether Vientos can improve his playability at first base, particularly with regards to lateral range.
Ultimately, Stearns' gamble on Polanco may pay off if he develops into a quality first baseman. The outcome of this move will likely have significant implications for the Mets' infield depth and overall defensive capabilities.
Polanco's defensive skills might be better suited for first base than other positions, as his arm is weaker but more reliable when positioned at first. Additionally, his hands and baseball instincts could translate well to the position. However, concerns remain about Polanco's speed, which may become less of an issue at first base compared to third.
The Mets' decision to sign Polanco may also be influenced by their interest in top prospect Ryan Clifford, who touched Triple-A Syracuse last season. If Polanco struggles, he could transition into a more DH-oriented role, allowing Clifford to solidify his spot at the position.
Other potential free agent options for first base include Ty France, Cody Bellinger, Luis Arráez, Rhys Hoskins, and Paul Goldschmidt. The Mets may also consider trade possibilities like Christian Walker from the Astros or Ryan Mountcastle from the Orioles.
Kai Correa's appointment as bench coach could provide Polanco with additional guidance on his new role. However, it remains to be seen whether Vientos can improve his playability at first base, particularly with regards to lateral range.
Ultimately, Stearns' gamble on Polanco may pay off if he develops into a quality first baseman. The outcome of this move will likely have significant implications for the Mets' infield depth and overall defensive capabilities.
! I think Jorge Polanco is an awesome pick up, his baseball instincts are top-notch 
. I do agree that speed might be less of a concern at first base, so maybe they'll get to see how he handles the power side of the position 
️. It's also interesting to see what Kai Correa can bring to the team as bench coach, I've heard great things about his coaching style 
. I'm not too worried about Ryan Vientos' playability at first base, he'll get some time to figure it out and develop 
. The Mets are clearly trying to build a solid foundation for their infield, and if Polanco can deliver on that, they might just be onto something 
!
, I mean, you gotta respect Stearns for being willing to take calculated risks on players like him. he might not be the fastest guy, but his hands and instincts could make up for that on the diamond 
. plus, having Kai Correa as bench coach is a big plus, he's got experience and knows what it takes to help players adapt to new roles 
. now I'm curious to see how Ryan Clifford fares in the lineup if Polanco struggles – does he get the chance to prove himself? 
, but what I think is even more interesting is how it's gonna affect their lineup with Clifford making his MLB debut next season 
. The thought of Polanco potentially transitioning to a DH role if things don't click is pretty cool too 
. I mean, who wouldn't want to see Polanco at the plate crushing it all day? 
I'm so hyped about the Mets signing Jorge Polanco!!! 
They must've done their research, right? Watching him play and working out with those coaches is everything! 
That's a good move too! Polanco could learn so much from him. I'm rooting for him to crush it at 1B and prove Stearns right 
. The Mets are probably counting on him too much, if you ask me. They should've stuck with someone they know, like Ty France or Cody Bellinger... who are way more reliable in my opinion 
.
. I mean, who needs Ryan Clifford when you've got a guy with "only" one pitch of experience at first base? 
And let's be real, if Polanco struggles, he'll just get to play more DH and we can all breathe a sigh of relief that the Mets aren't wasting their time on actual talent 
anyway, the mets' decision might be influenced by their other plans, like signing ryan clifford or trading for christian walker 
. Other options like Ty France are still out there, but I think the Mets are making a smart move by giving Polanco a chance to prove himself 
POLANCO DOES SEEM LIKE HE COULD BRING SOME DECENT SKILLS TO THE POSITION, ESPECIALLY DEFENSIVELY. BUT YOU NEVER KNOW HOW IT'S ALL GOING TO PLAY OUT IN PRACTICE 
. And what if Vientos doesn't quite gel with him? I mean, we saw what happened with Luis Guillermo Marquez at first base last year... 
. The other free agent options are looking pretty solid too - I'm intrigued by Rhys Hoskins!