Any hope that New York Mets fans had about All-Star first baseman Pete Alonso and closer Edwin Díaz reversing course and returning to Queens officially ended on Friday, Dec. 12, when they officially signed their respective contracts with the Baltimore Orioles and Los Angeles Dodgers.

The Baltimore Orioles stole Pete Alonso from the New York Mets, and the Mets need to respond by signing a different slugger.

The Mets will be Polanco’s third MLB team. He spent 2014 to 2023 with the Twins before spending the last two seasons with the Mariners. This article was originally published on www.si.com as Mets Sign Former Mariners Standout As Franchise Works to Replace Pete Alonso.

The Mets signed veteran switch-hitter Jorge Polanco in free agency on Saturday, their first move to replace Pete Alonso’s presence at first base and in the heart of their lineup. Will Sammon of The Athletic was first to report Polanco’s deal with New York, a two-year contract worth $40 million.

Key departures of Diaz and Alonso leave the Mets reeling, forcing a drastic roster overhaul and immense pressure to deliver results.

A person with knowledge of the agreement says the New York Mets have agreed to a two-year deal with veteran infielder Jorge Polanco.