Mets' Carlos Mendoza Addresses Jorge Polanco's Achilles Injury

Mets manager says Polanco's Achilles issue flared up after second game, leading to DH role

Mar. 30, 2026 at 10:22pm

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New York Mets manager Carlos Mendoza revealed that infielder Jorge Polanco is dealing with an Achilles injury that flared up after the team's second game of the season. As a result, Polanco has been limited to designated hitter duties to manage the issue, though Mendoza said the team is not overly concerned about the injury at this early stage.

Why it matters

Achilles injuries can be tricky and slow to heal, so the Mets will need to carefully monitor Polanco's condition to ensure he does not aggravate the issue and miss extended time. The team is hoping to get Polanco fully healthy and back in the field soon, as he is expected to be a key contributor this season.

The details

Polanco had been seeing time at first base to start the season, which is a new position for him. However, when the Mets' lineup was revealed for their game against the St. Louis Cardinals, Polanco was listed as the designated hitter. Mendoza explained that Polanco's Achilles 'flared up' after the team's second game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, leading the Mets to limit his exposure in the field for the time being.

  • Polanco's Achilles issue flared up after the Mets' second game of the season against the Pirates.

The players

Carlos Mendoza

The manager of the New York Mets.

Jorge Polanco

An infielder for the New York Mets who is dealing with an Achilles injury.

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What they’re saying

“His Achilles kind of flared up after the second game. That's why he DH'ed yesterday.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

“We're not concerned, [proven by that] he's playing. But I kind of want to limit his exposure on the field. So we've just got to treat it here, and just be careful with him, especially this early.”

— Carlos Mendoza, Mets Manager

What’s next

The Mets will continue to monitor Polanco's Achilles injury and determine when he can safely return to playing in the field.

The takeaway

Achilles injuries can be tricky, so the Mets are taking a cautious approach with Polanco in the early going to ensure he does not aggravate the issue and miss significant time. The team is hopeful he can get healthy and return to his regular role soon.