The New York Mets made significant moves during the offseason, signing Bo Bichette and Jorge Polanco to enhance their infield. The team sealed a two-year, $40 million contract with Polanco in December and later secured a three-year, $126 million deal with Bichette in January, featuring opt-out clauses after the 2026 and 2027 seasons.
Player Position Changes
Both players will take on new roles in the Mets’ infield. Bichette will transition to third base, while Polanco will alternate between first base and designated hitter. This shift marks a pivotal change for both athletes.
Offensive Performance
When it comes to offensive capabilities, Bichette stands out as the more potent hitter. Excluding a challenging 2024 season where he played only 81 games due to injuries, he has consistently posted wRC+ figures at least 20% above league average since 2019. His impressive 2025 statistics include a .314 batting average and a 134 wRC+, a career-best full-season score.
- Bichette’s 2025 Stats: .314/.357/.483, 134 wRC+, 14.5% strikeout rate
Conversely, Polanco also had a commendable 2025 season, finishing with a wRC+ of 132 over 524 plate appearances, mirroring Bichette’s output closely. Notably, he drastically reduced his strikeout rate from 29.2% in 2024 to an impressive 15.6% in 2025.
- Polanco’s 2025 Stats: .265/.326/.495, 132 wRC+
Defensive Concerns
Defensive performance is a concern for both players. Throughout his career, Bichette has mainly played shortstop; however, recent metrics show he struggled defensively in 2025, rounding out at the first percentile in range and concluding the season with a negative 12 Defensive Runs Saved (DRS) and negative 13 Outs Above Average (OAA).
Polanco transitioned from shortstop to primarily playing second and third base since 2023. In 2025, his defensive metrics were also negative, with a combined total of -4 DRS and OAA across both positions.
Comparison of Defensive Yields
| Player | Position | DRS | OAA |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bichette | Third Base | -12 | -13 |
| Polanco | 2B/3B | -4 | -4 |
Value Assessment
Determining which of the two players offers better value for the Mets involves financial considerations. Bichette’s contract, while substantial, allows for an opt-out after 2026, giving the Mets flexibility. His deal could become a one-year, $47 million agreement if he opts out, while Polanco’s contract guarantees $40 million through 2027 without similar exit options.
Polanco, while less expensive, presents greater risk for regression based on his historical strikeout rates. At four years older than Bichette, his ability to maintain performance as he approaches his 30s is uncertain.
Poll: Who Is the Better Value?
As the Mets navigate these changes, fans and analysts alike may have differing opinions. Should Bichette’s offensive skills justify his contract despite defensive limitations? Alternatively, can Polanco maintain his performance while adapted to less demanding defensive roles?
Readers are invited to participate in a poll: Who offers better value for the Mets, Bo Bichette or Jorge Polanco?
