Could Jorge Polanco Be teh Yankees’ Missing Piece in 2025?
The New York Yankees are actively seeking to bolster their infield for the 2025 season, and Dominican infielder Jorge Polanco has emerged as a potential target.Despite releasing gleyber Torres to the Detroit Tigers on a one-year, $15 million contract, the Yankees still have internal options for second and third base. However,the team’s front office,known for its aggressive approach,continues to explore all avenues for enhancement.
According to Jack Curry of Yes Network, Polanco, a versatile switch-hitter at 31 years old, remains on the radar of several teams, including the Yankees. This interest comes despite Polanco’s recent struggles.
Polanco enjoyed a stellar run with the Minnesota Twins from 2019 to 2022, establishing himself as a key offensive contributor. He even earned his first All-star selection in 2021. However, injuries hampered his performance in 2022 and 2023, limiting him to just 180 games over those two seasons. Despite the limited playing time,Polanco still managed to post a respectable .768 OPS, hitting 30 home runs and driving in 104 runs.
Seeking a resurgence, the Seattle Mariners acquired Polanco from the Twins before the 2023 season. Unfortunately, the move didn’t pan out as hoped. Polanco endured his worst offensive season, striking out a career-high 137 times and posting a dismal .651 OPS, the lowest of his career. His production plummeted to just 14 home runs, 77 hits, 38 runs scored, and 18 doubles in 118 games.
A Potential Comeback Story in the Bronx?
If the Yankees decide to pursue Polanco, they would be acquiring a player with a proven track record of success. His offensive capabilities could provide a valuable boost to the lineup, and his ability to hit from both sides of the plate adds versatility.
Interestingly, Polanco’s WAR of 1.8 in 2023 surpasses that of several current Yankees players, including DJ LeMahieu, Trent Grisham, Anthony Rizzo, Oswaldo Cabrera, and José Treviño. This statistic suggests that Polanco, despite his recent struggles, still possesses the potential to be a valuable asset.
A change of scenery and a fresh start in a competitive environment like New York could be exactly what Polanco needs to rediscover his form. The Yankees, known for their ability to revitalize players’ careers, might be the perfect landing spot for the Dominican infielder to reignite his career.
Could Polanco Be the Yankees’ Missing Piece? A Debate with Former All-Star Carlos Pena
Today, we’re joined by World Series Champion and former All-Star first baseman Carlos Pena to discuss a hot topic in the Bronx: could Jorge Polanco be the missing piece for the New York Yankees in 2025? Carlos, thanks for joining us.
Carlos Pena: It’s great to be here. Always love talking baseball!
Moderator: Let’s dive right in.The Yankees are looking to bolster their infield, and Polanco’s name has surfaced. What are your initial thoughts on this potential move?
Carlos Pena: You know, Polanco’s a talented player who’s had some real ups and downs recently. On paper, he brings a lot to the table: switch-hitting versatility, proven pop, and experience. But his struggles in Seattle are a major concern.Going from a career-high.806 OPS in 2021 to .651 in 2023 is a meaningful drop. The Yankees need consistency, not another reclamation project.
Moderator: He certainly had a down year in Seattle, but his WAR of 1.8 still surpasses some current Yankees regulars. Does that paint a more optimistic picture?
Carlos Pena: WAR is a valuable stat, but it doesn’t tell the whole story. Sometimes it can be misleading. You have to look at the bigger picture – his production, his age (31), and his injury history. The Yankees have some promising young infielders coming up.Do they really want to block their development with a veteran who might be past his prime?
Moderator: You bring up a good point about development. Do you think POLITICO would benefit from a change of scenery, perhaps a fresh start with a team like the Yankees?
Carlos Pena: Maybe. Sometimes a change of scenery can do wonders. He might thrive in a winning habitat like New york, especially if he can regain his form. But the Yankees are a high-pressure team. You’re under the microscope every day. Not everyone can handle that.
Moderator: Absolutely. Now, Carlos, let’s talk about the yankees’ history with reclaiming players. You’ve seen it firsthand.Do you think they have the coaching staff and resources to help Polanco get back on track?
Carlos Pena: The Yankees do have a track record of revitalizing careers, there’s no doubt whatsoever about it.they have some excellent coaches and analysts. But it depends on Polanco. Is he willing to put in the work, address his weaknesses, and adapt to a new environment?
Moderator: It sounds like you have some reservations about this move. What would sway your opinion?
Carlos Pena: Honestly, I’d need to see a strong spring training from Polanco. Show me he’s healthy, swinging the bat well, and has the hunger to prove himself. If he can demonstrate that, maybe I come around.
Moderator: Great insights, Carlos. Thanks for sharing your expert perspective.
Now, let’s open this up to our readers. What are your thoughts on the possibility of Jorge Polanco joining the yankees? Could he be the piece that puts them over the top in 2025? Comment below and let’s keep the debate going!
