Mets Prospects Baty and Polanco Adapt to New Positions

Young stars look to contribute in expanded roles as Mets prepare for season

Mar. 6, 2026 at 2:29am

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Mets prospects Brett Baty and Jorge Polanco are getting more acquainted with their new positions this spring as they look to contribute in expanded roles for the team. Baty is adjusting to playing right field after primarily being an infielder, while Polanco is learning first base after being a middle infielder. The two are working together and bouncing ideas off each other as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Why it matters

The Mets are looking to integrate young talent into their lineup, with Baty, Polanco, and others taking on new positions. How well these players adapt to their new roles will be crucial to the team's success this season.

The details

Baty, who played left field in the minors, is still adjusting to balls moving in the opposite direction on the right side of the field. Polanco, a longtime middle infielder, is also getting comfortable at first base. The two are working together and getting advice from teammate Mark Vientos, who is also learning a new position at third base. Manager Carlos Mendoza is pleased with their progress, noting Polanco's smooth play on a sharp grounder and Baty's opposite-field home run.

  • The Mets faced the Nationals in a spring training game on March 5, 2026.

The players

Brett Baty

A Mets prospect who is adjusting to playing right field after primarily being an infielder in the minors.

Jorge Polanco

A veteran Mets player who is learning a new position at first base after being a middle infielder throughout his career.

Carlos Mendoza

The Mets' manager who is overseeing the position changes and development of young players like Baty and Polanco.

Mark Vientos

A Mets prospect who is also learning a new position at third base while playing for Team Nicaragua in the World Baseball Classic.

Bo Bichette

A Mets player who is transitioning from shortstop to third base this spring.

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What they’re saying

“When he mentioned it, I didn't even think about it, but it's a good plan. It makes sense.”

— Brett Baty

“There's no ego with him. He wants to play, and he'll play wherever. We're both bouncing ideas off each other, working on our footwork. It's good to have both [of] us there working — and Mark, too, when he was here.”

— Brett Baty

“He's engaged with the dugout and the movement from batter-to-batter [and] pitch-to-pitch.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

What’s next

The Mets will continue to evaluate Baty, Polanco, and the other players adjusting to new positions as they prepare for the start of the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Mets are taking a proactive approach to integrating young talent into their lineup, with players like Baty and Polanco embracing new positions to contribute. Their ability to adapt will be crucial to the team's success this season.