Jorge Polanco could miss the rest of the season with the Mets due to ankle surgery
Jorge Polanco’s 2026 season has taken a definitive turn. The New York Mets organization announced that the Dominican infielder will undergo surgery on his left ankle to correct persistent bursitis, which will likely mark the end of his on-field activity for the remainder of the year.
The player was recently placed on the 10-day injured list, a necessary measure given the veteran’s inability to perform without pain. Andy Green, interim manager of the New York team, indicated that surgery is the most viable path for the player to regain full health.
It has reached a point where he simply cannot get rid of the pain.
Andy Green, interim manager of the Mets
A year marked by physical difficulties
After signing a two-year, $40 million contract last December, Polanco faced an extremely complicated campaign. Injuries, which began with Achilles tendon discomfort and moved to his left ankle, severely limited his offensive production.
- After missing nearly three months of action, the Dominican returned to the roster on July 7.
- In his 23 games following his return, he recorded a .127 batting average.
- His total offensive line for the season ended at a .148 average, with two home runs and six runs batted in over 145 plate appearances.
Following the discouraging results of a recent MRI, the Mets’ front office concluded that surgery was inevitable. The goal set by the organization is for Polanco to complete his rehabilitation process in time to arrive in optimal condition for next year’s spring training.
Mets roster adjustments
To cover the infielder’s absence, the Mets have made immediate moves to their roster. The organization promoted infielder Eric Wagaman from Triple-A Syracuse. Additionally, Christopher Morel, who recently joined the team, is expected to take on a more prominent role as the designated hitter during the final stretch of the season.
For Polanco, this is a moment of mandatory pause after a difficult stage with his new organization, now focusing all his efforts on a recovery that will allow him to return to his competitive level in 2027.
