New York Mets contend with Polanco injury while bullpen excels

Infielder Jorge Polanco has been on the injured list for more than two months after suffering Achilles bursitis. Manager Carlos Mendoza said his recovery is inconsistent, noting, "There's days where he feels good, then it flares up again and we have to slow things down." Polanco’s season stats show a .179 batting average, one home run and a .532 OPS in 61 plate appearances, indicating a prolonged rehab period.

Meanwhile, the Mets’ bullpen remains one of the strongest in MLB, posting a 3.33 ERA that ranks fourth league‑wide. Reliever Luke Weaver has not allowed a run since April, riding a 20‑inning scoreless streak into late June. At a projected $11 million salary in 2027, he offers both performance and cost‑effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in the approaching trade deadline. The Mets could either retain Weaver to bolster their 2027 rotation or trade him for prospects and major‑league talent.