Mets' Jorge Polanco 'just going for it' at first base

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Jorge Polanco, a veteran infielder for the New York Mets, is working to get more comfortable playing first base as the team looks to fill the position with inexperienced options like Mark Vientos and Brett Baty. Polanco said the mental challenges of the new position, like deciding when to go for balls hit to his right, will be the most difficult part of the transition. The Mets are giving Polanco time to prepare for the position change before Opening Day, with the team also getting looks at Vientos and Baty at first base during spring training.

Why it matters

The Mets are taking a risk by moving Polanco, an established infielder, to first base, a position he has limited experience at. This experiment could pay dividends if Polanco can adapt quickly, but it also carries the risk of defensive lapses if he struggles with the transition. The team's success this season may hinge on how well Polanco and the other first base options perform.

The details

Polanco played in a simulated game on Thursday as he works to get more comfortable at first base. He said the position was "a little different at the beginning" but that this is the "perfect time to get ready" before Opening Day. Polanco also spoke with veteran Carlos Santana to get pointers on the mental aspects of playing first base. Meanwhile, other Mets first base candidates like Vientos and Baty also saw action at the position in spring training games.

• The Mets' first game of the 2026 season is less than a month away.
• Polanco played in a simulated game at the team's spring training facility on Thursday.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Polanco and the other Mets first base candidates will continue to see playing time at the position throughout the remainder of spring training as they prepare for the start of the 2026 season.