Jorge Polanco’s transition to first base for the New York Mets has been marked by ongoing struggles, raising questions about the team’s offseason decision to replace Pete Alonso with the 33-year-old infielder. Polanco, who returned from a nearly three-month absence due to wrist and ankle injuries, has continued to face difficulties at the plate and in adjusting to his new role.

On Wednesday at Citi Field during the opening game of a doubleheader against the Atlanta Braves, Polanco went 0-for-3 with three strikeouts, including a key at-bat in the seventh inning with the bases loaded where he swung and missed. Despite the Mets taking the lead in that inning, Polanco was met with boos from the crowd as he returned to the dugout. The team ultimately won 3-2, but Polanco’s performance did little to assure fans or management.

Since rejoining the lineup as the designated hitter—he has been unable to play defensively due to Achilles bursitis—Polanco has managed only four hits in 41 at-bats, batting .098. His strikeout numbers have been concerning, with at least one strikeout recorded in eight of his past nine games and a total of 13 strikeouts in 29 recent at-bats. These struggles contrast sharply with the production expected of Alonso, who left the Mets to sign a five-year, $155 million deal with the Baltimore Orioles.

Polanco’s current form stands in stark contrast to his career achievements, including a notable postseason performance last year with the Seattle Mariners where he hit two home runs in Game 2 of the ALDS. Interim Mets manager Andy Green acknowledged Polanco’s ongoing search for timing and rhythm after his extended injury layoff but expressed confidence that one solid swing could help turn things around.

“The guy is ridiculously good,” Green said, underscoring Polanco’s history as a productive player. “He hasn’t been able to find his timing or rhythm right-handed or left-handed. He’s obviously dealt with injuries all year, so he’s someone that we know we’re one swing away. We’d all like that swing to get here.”

The decision by the Mets’ front office, led by general manager David Stearns, to let Alonso leave and bring in Polanco—who has little experience at first base—has drawn scrutiny amid Polanco’s continued absence of offensive impact and limited defensive availability. Mark Vientos, the Mets’ secondary option at first base, has also struggled this season, providing few alternatives for the team as they seek more production.

Polanco still has time under his current contract, which runs through next year, to regain form and establish himself with the Mets and their fan base. However, his confidence and consistency remain areas of concern, particularly as he adjusts to fans’ reactions and his new role on the team. Following Wednesday’s game, Polanco was unavailable for comment, reportedly attending to treatment in the training room.