The New York Mets announced that they reinstated infielder Jorge Polanco from the 60-day injured list ahead of Tuesday’s series opener against the Kansas City Royals at Citi Field. Polanco has been sidelined since late April with an Achilles and ankle injury. He is expected to start as the team’s designated hitter for the time being.
In corresponding moves, the Mets optioned infielder Ronny Mauricio to Triple A-Syracuse. They also promoted righty Matt Seelinger to the major league roster after acquiring him for cash considerations from the Detroit Tigers.
Jorge Polanco Returns
The Mets signed Polanco during the offseason due to his reliable hitting and defense. This earned him an All-Star appearance. He was expected to play first base for the first time in his career. Yet, his first season in Queens didn’t get off to a hot start. He registered only 10 hits, two RBI and a home run in 14 games.
Jorge Polanco was then sidelined by an ankle and achilles injury. The combination of injuries kept him out of action for the last two months. It took time for him to make a full recovery, as he went on two rehab assignments with Triple-A Syracuse. There was some concern about how his injury might have affected his ability to perform at his usual level. Still, he is ready to rejoin the lineup after they won their last two games.
“Feeling good, feeling grateful and excited to be back,” Polanco said.
More Roster Moves
To make room for Jorge Polanco, the team optioned Mauricio, who wasn’t the perfect replacement. Since returning from a broken thumb, he has recorded nine hits, two RBI and a home run.
The Mets also promoted Seelinger, who is expected to join the relief unit for depth purposes. He brings experience as a nine-season veteran of the minor leagues, who holds a 3.33 ERA with 521 strikeouts in 284 appearances. He is also a native of Long Island, New York, having played his college career at Farmingdale State College.
“I know how New York traffic works. For my debut, I would’ve been here at 8 am if they told me to. I was not going to be late,” Seelinger joked. “I think all of Long Island will be here.”
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