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Player DetailJorge Polanco
Jorge Polanco Injury News & Updates
Nov 2, 2023
Club option exercised
The Twins exercised Polanco's $10.5 million club option for 2024 on Thursday, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco again battled durability issues in 2023, missing significant time due to ankle, knee and hamstring injuries, but he registered a .789 OPS with 14 home runs across 80 games (343 plate appearances) when healthy. Minnesota could potentially look to trade the 30-year-old infielder this winter and install Edouard Julien at second base, but exercising the option was likely an easy early-offseason decision for the AL Central champs.
Oct 3, 2023
Back in action for Game 1
Polanco (ankle) is starting at third base and batting second in Tuesday's Game 1 of their Wild Card Series versus the Blue Jays.
ANALYSIS
Polanco missed the final two games of the regular season with a right ankle injury, but he's ready to go for the Twins' playoff opener. With Royce Lewis limited to designated hitter duties as he returns from a hamstring injury, Polanco is in line to serve as Minnesota's regular third baseman.
Oct 1, 2023
Still out Sunday
Polanco (ankle) is not in Sunday's lineup against the Rockies.
ANALYSIS
He was pulled from Friday's game with right ankle soreness and will miss a second game in a row with the Twins already locked into the postseason. It's unclear if Polanco will be ready to go for the playoffs on Tuesday.
Sep 30, 2023
Doesn't start Saturday
Polanco (ankle) wasn't in the starting lineup for Saturday's game against Colorado.
ANALYSIS
Polanco was pulled from Friday's matchup due to a sore right ankle, and the Twins are likely acting out of an abundance of caution by holding him out of this one after already locking up the AL Central. He'll continue to be considered day-to-day moving forward.
Sep 29, 2023
Removed with sore ankle
Polanco is considered day-to-day after exiting Friday's game at Colorado due to right ankle soreness, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco tweaked his ankle on a fourth-inning strikeout, though he was able to gut it out until the bottom of the sixth. Donovan Solano slid over from first base to second base with Alex Kirilloff entering to play first.
Sep 28, 2023
Absent from lineup
Polanco is not in the lineup for Thursday's contest versus the Athletics.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will take a seat for the afternoon game after starting the previous two contests. Donovan Solano is at second base and Willi Castro is at third.
Sep 25, 2023
Chips in with solo home run
Polanco went 1-for-5 with a solo home run in Sunday's win over the Twins.
ANALYSIS
Polanco took Carson Fulmer deep in the third and now has a hit in 18 of his last 22 games dating back to Aug. 26. Over that span, he's slashing .295/.376/.568 with six homers, 19 RBI, 17 runs scored and a 12:27 BB:K. He should continue to hit near the top of the order as the Twins gear up for the playoffs.
Sep 23, 2023
Rests after clinching playoffs
Polanco will be on the bench for Saturday's game against the Angels, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The Twins made a large number of changes after celebrating their playoff-clinching win Friday night. Edouard Julien will start at second base Saturday.
Sep 15, 2023
Not in lineup Friday
Polanco is not in the lineup Friday versus the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
Edouard Julien will start at second base as Royce Lewis takes a turn in the DH role and Kyle Farmer covers third base. This is presumably just a day of rest for Polanco, who is sitting on a four-game hitting streak.
Sep 13, 2023
Returns from bereavement
Polanco was activated from the bereavement list Wednesday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco missed three games while tending to personal matters, but he's rejoined the Twins and is back in the lineup for Wednesday's series finale against the Rays. The veteran infielder will carry an .802 OPS into play Wednesday.
Sep 10, 2023
Goes on bereavement leave
Minnesota placed Polanco on the bereavement list Sunday.
ANALYSIS
Polanco had been slated to serve as the Twins' designated hitter Sunday against the Mets, but he has now been excused from the team for at least the next few days to deal with a private family matter. Gilberto Celestino will get the call from Triple-A St. Paul in a corresponding roster move.
Sep 5, 2023
Homers in three-hit performance
Polanco went 3-for-3 with a home run, a walk, two RBI and two additional runs in Monday's 20-6 win over the Guardians.
ANALYSIS
Since donning the Golden Sombrero in the Twins' 2-0 win over the Pirates on Aug. 20, Polanco has reached base in each of his last 13 contests, slashing .356/.482/.667 with four home runs, 11 RBI and 10 runs over that stretch. Though the Twins should soon get some reinforcement to the lineup with Alex Kirilloff (shoulder) and Byron Buxton (knee) due back soon from the injured list, Polanco will continue to play on a near-everyday basis while moving between second base, third base and designated hitter.
Aug 28, 2023
Homers, drives in five
Polanco went 2-for-4 with a home run, a double, three RBI and two runs scored in Monday's win against the Guardians.
ANALYSIS
Polanco doubled and scored in the second inning before ripping a three-run shot in the fourth. He's knocked four homers while going 18-for-54 (.333) over his last 15 games. On the year, he owns a .785 OPS with 23 extra-base hits through 58 games.
Aug 26, 2023
Clubs homer Saturday
Polanco went 2-for-4 with a solo home run in Saturday's 6-2 loss to the Rangers.
ANALYSIS
Polanco had gone seven games without an extra-base hit, batting .273 (6-for-22) with three RBI in that span. The infielder continues to move around between second base, third base and designated hitter as the Twins find at-bats for Edouard Julien. Polanco is hitting a middling .250 with a .766 OPS, nine homers, 30 RBI, 21 runs scored and three stolen bases through 56 contests this year.
Aug 23, 2023
Resting Wednesday
Polanco is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Brewers.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will get a breather for the day game after a night game, ending a streak of 13 consecutive starts. With Polanco riding pine for the series finale, Royce Lewis will man third base, and second baseman Edouard Julien will get a day out of the field and serve as the Twins' designated hitter.
Aug 17, 2023
Homers, drives in three
Polanco went 1-for-3 with a home run and three RBI in Wednesday's loss to the Tigers.
ANALYSIS
Polanco gave the Twins a 4-0 lead with his sacrifice fly in the second inning and later added a two-run shot in the bottom of the ninth to bring the Twins back within two runs of Detroit. The second baseman has now hit safely in four of his last five games, driving in six runs over that stretch to go along with three walks and three runs scored.
Aug 6, 2023
Not starting Sunday
Polanco is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Diamondbacks, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco has started all eight games since being reinstated from the injured list July 28, but he'll hit the bench Sunday after he posted a .172/.294/.310 slash line during that span. Willi Castro will man the hot corner and bat eighth in his place.
Jul 28, 2023
Activated from injured list
Minnesota activated Polanco (hamstring) from the 10-day injured list Friday.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will be back in action with the Twins on Friday night against the Royals after batting .333/.448/.500 over 29 plate appearances on his seven-game minor-league rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul. The 30-year-old second baseman has battled multiple leg injuries this season, but he typically produces solid offensive numbers when his health cooperates.
Jul 26, 2023
To return this weekend
Polanco (hamstring) is slated to be activated from the 10-day injured list in time for the Twins' series in Kansas City this weekend, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
He will play a seventh and final rehab game with Triple-A St. Paul on Wednesday before rejoining the big club Friday. Polanco is making his third start at third base for St. Paul on Wednesday and looks to be in line to see most of his action against right-handers with the Twins at the hot corner, with Edouard Julien remaining at second base.
Jul 21, 2023
To get 3B reps
Polanco (hamstring) will get reps at third base during his rehab assignment, Bobby Nightengale of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
ANALYSIS
Edouard Julien has been the Twins' best hitter lately, so he may remain the go-to option at second base against right-handed pitching even once Polanco is healthy. Polanco could play third base against righties and second base against southpaws. He is hitting .200 with four strikeouts and two walks through three rehab games.
Jul 15, 2023
Rehab begins Sunday
Polanco (hamstring) will begin a rehab assignment Sunday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco debuted back in 2014 and made it through the end of 2021 without ever hitting the injured list, but he went there twice last season and three times so far this year, including twice with a strained left hamstring. His latest injury has kept him out for over a month, but it doesn't look as though he'll miss too much more time.
Jul 9, 2023
Nearing rehab assignment
President of baseball operations Derek Falvey said Sunday he hopes Polanco (hamstring) will be able to begin a rehab assignment with Triple-A St. Paul "around next weekend, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
The 30-year-old returned to baseball activities in late June and is hoping to ramp up his running program this week, which could be the final hurdle before being cleared for game action. Polanco landed on the shelf June 10 with a hamstring strain and will likely require a handful of games in the minors before rejoining the Twins.
Jul 3, 2023
Doing sprints Monday
Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said that Polanco (hamstring) will do some "high-effort sprints" Monday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
He's also set to go through other baseball activities with the team. Polanco wouldn't appear to be too far off from a rehab assignment and is expected to require a handful of games when he is deemed ready. The veteran second baseman has missed a large chunk of the season with a knee injury and a pair of hamstring strains.
Jun 27, 2023
Begins baseball activities
Polanco (hamstring) has been hitting in the cage, taking groundballs and is in the midst of a running progression, Twins trainer Nick Paparesta told the St. Paul Pioneer Press.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will advance to running the bases next week and then potentially begin a rehab assignment. Polanco missed two weeks in late May with a left hamstring strain and made it less than 10 days before injuring the same muscle. Expect the Twins to take their time with Polanco's recovery as a result.
Jun 10, 2023
Dealing with moderate strain
Polanco's hamstring strain is worse than the one he just recovered from, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco missed two weeks in late May with a left hamstring strain and made it less than 10 days before injuring the same muscle. The strain is reportedly in a different spot and is "somewhat more severe" according to manager Rocco Baldelli, though an exact timeline for his recovery is not yet clear. Edouard Julien was recalled Saturday and should serve as the Twins' primary second baseman.
Jun 10, 2023
To IL with hamstring strain
Polanco was placed on the 10-day injured list Saturday with a left hamstring strain.
ANALYSIS
He was pulled from Thursday's game after suffering the hamstring injury and an MRI revealed a strain. Edouard Julien was recalled from Triple-A St. Paul to take Polanco's spot on the active roster and should fill in for him at second base, at least against righties.
Jun 9, 2023
Sent for MRI on hamstring
Polanco is undergoing an MRI on his left hamstring Friday, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Pressreports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco is absent from the Twins' starting lineup for Friday night's series opener in Toronto after tweaking his hamstring in Thursday's series finale versus the Rays. He's considered day-to-day for now but could require another IL stint if the MRI shows anything at all concerning. The 29-year-old middle infielder has been limited to 30 games (127 plate appearances) this season.
Jun 9, 2023
Absent Friday
Polanco (hamstring) is not in the starting lineup Friday versus the Blue Jays.
ANALYSIS
Polanco pulled his left hamstring Thursday versus the Rays and he will head to the bench Friday while nursing the injury. The 29-year-old returned from the 10-day injured list June 1 after a separate hamstring injury and the team will likely be cautious in their attempts to get him back in the lineup. Kyle Farmer will draw the start at second base and bat fifth in the series opener with Toronto.
Jun 8, 2023
Day-to-day with tight hamstring
Twins manager Rocco Baldelli expressed optimism Thursday that Polanco (hamstring) will avoid the injured list, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. "He's still, I think, pretty strong in the muscle," said Baldelli. "But he definitely felt something. We're going to have to pay attention to it."
ANALYSIS
Polanco tweaked his troublesome left hamstring while running the bases in the top of the first inning Thursday versus the Rays. The second baseman just returned June 1 from a nearly two-week stay on the IL for a left hamstring strain. He's considered day-to-day leading into the Twins' three-game weekend series at Toronto.
Jun 8, 2023
Nursing tight hamstring
Polanco was pulled from Thursday's game versus the Rays with left hamstring tightness, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco was hurt in the first inning while running the bases. It's the same hamstring which he injured previously, having just returning from the IL at the beginning of the month. If it's deemed an aggravation of that previous issue, another stint on the IL is certainly possible, although the Twins should offer more on the infielder's status after the game.
Jun 8, 2023
Exits with apparent leg injury
Polanco left Thursday's game in the first inning due to an apparent leg injury while running the bases, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
ANALYSIS
Donovan Solano replaced Polanco at second base. Polanco missed 12 days in May due to a hamstring injury, so hopefully this isn't a significant setback.
Jun 4, 2023
Swats solo shot
Polanco went 1-for-4 with a solo home run in a loss to the Guardians on Saturday.
ANALYSIS
Polanco led off the contest with a 413-foot blast, but Minnesota didn't manage much more offense the rest of the way. The long ball was his third hit since returning June 1 from a stay on the injured list, and all three knocks have gone for extra bases (two doubles, one homer). Polanco has been steady when healthy enough to play this season, posting a .278/.316/.500 slash line, five home runs, 16 RBI and one steal over 26 contests.
Jun 1, 2023
At leadoff in return
Polanco (hamstring) is batting leadoff in his return to the lineup Thursday night against the Guardians.
ANALYSIS
Polanco was activated from the injured list Thursday morning after missing around two weeks with a left hamstring strain. He's produced a solid .811 OPS in 23 games this year when healthy, mostly hitting near the middle of the Twins' batting order. Thursday marks his first appearance out of the leadoff spot in 2023.
Jun 1, 2023
Activated from injured list
Polanco was activated from the 10-day injured list Thursday.
ANALYSIS
Polanco wound up missing just a little over the minimum time on the IL with a strained left hamstring. He is skipping a rehab assignment and will slide right back in as the Twins' starting second baseman. Edouard Julien has been sent down in a corresponding move.
May 31, 2023
Returning Thursday
The Twins will activate Polanco (hamstring) from the 10-day injured list Thursday, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
A strained left hamstring sent Polanco to the injured list May 20, and he will return after spending slightly more than the minimum amount of time on the IL. The 29-year-old infielder was seeing the ball extremely well prior to getting injured, slashing .316/.435/.737 with two homers and three RBI across his last five games. His return will send Edouard Julien back to Triple-A St. Paul.
May 29, 2023
Continues running program
Polanco (hamstring) was spotted taking part in sprinting and running drills on the field Sunday at Target Field, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco was eligible to return from the 10-day injured list Sunday, but he doesn't look like he'll require too much more time beyond the minimum before being ready to return. The second baseman has now been able to run on multiple occasions since landing on the IL and has continued to take batting practice. Edouard Julien will likely hold down the fort at second base until Polanco is deemed ready for activation, possibly later this week.
May 27, 2023
Begins hitting
Polanco (hamstring) hit pregame on the field before Friday's game, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
It's the first sign of progress for Polanco since he went on the injured list May 20. His timetable isn't clear, but it doesn't look like he'll return when eligible May 30. He'll likely need to show he can run at full speed before the Twins figure out a more specific timetable.
May 20, 2023
Placed on 10-day IL
Polanco (hamstring) was placed on the 10-day injured list Saturday, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
ANALYSIS
After tweaking his hamstring Wednesday against the Dodgers, Polanco will now be sidelined for the next 10 days. The infielder will be eligible to return May 30, but in the meantime, Edouard Julien was called up from Triple-A St. Paul to replace him on the major-league roster.
May 19, 2023
Remains out of lineup Friday
Polanco (hamstring) is not in the starting lineup against the Angels on Friday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco was diagnosed with a mild left hamstring strain after leaving Wednesday's game against the Dodgers, and he'll miss at least one more game while recovering. Willi Castro gets the start at second base in Polanco's absence.
May 17, 2023
Has mild hamstring strain
Polanco has been diagnosed with a mild left hamstring strain, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco suffered the injury during Wednesday's game against the Dodgers. That the injury is being termed mild would seem to give him a shot to avoid the injured list, although hamstrings are notoriously tricky. Polanco went 1-for-3 with a single before exiting Wednesday.
May 16, 2023
Gets Tuesday off
Polanco is out of the starting lineup for Tuesday's game against the Twins.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will get Tuesday off with Clayton Kershaw on the bump for the Dodgers on Tuesday. Donovan Solano is starting at second base and hitting in the leadoff spot in Polanco's absence.
May 16, 2023
Homers, steals first bag
Polanco went 3-for-5 with a double, a homer, an RBI, three runs scored and a steal in Monday's 9-8 loss against the Dodgers.
ANALYSIS
Polanco singled, stole second and came around to score in the second inning. Polanco has not taken advantage of the new rules, as he had not even attempted to steal a base prior to Monday. The second baseman homered in the fourth off Noah Syndergaard, as a part of his three-hit night. Polanco is having a good season at the plate with an .816 OPS.
May 14, 2023
Pops third homer
Polanco went 1-for-5 with a two-run home run in Saturday's 11-1 rout of the Cubs.
ANALYSIS
He took Hayden Wesneski deep in the fifth inning, one of five Minnesota homers on the day. Polanco snapped a 12-game homer drought with the performance, and he's still struggling to find his timing after his delayed start to the season. Through 20 games, he's slashing .259/.276/.424 with three home runs, 12 RBI and a 2:22 BB:K.
Apr 26, 2023
Gets breather for matinee game
Polanco is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Yankees, Gary Phillips of the New York Daily News reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will get a breather for the series finale after he started each of the Twins' five games since he was activated from the injured list last Friday while going 9-for-22 with a home run, four doubles, six RBI and three runs across those contests. Donovan Solano will check in for Polanco at second base.
Apr 24, 2023
Drives in three runs
Polanco went 2-for-5 with a double and three RBI during Monday's win against the Yankees.
ANALYSIS
Polanco opened the scoring with a two-run single in the third inning and added an insurance run with an RBI double in the sixth. The veteran infielder has looked great since returning from his season-opening stint on the injured list. He's gone 7-for-18 (.389) with two extra-base hits and five RBI through four games.
Apr 24, 2023
Moves up to three spot
Polanco is batting third and playing second base for the Twins in Monday's game versus the Yankees.
ANALYSIS
Polanco batted fifth twice and sixth once over the weekend against the Nationals in his return to action, but he's earned a move up in the batting order after tallying three hits -- including a home run -- Sunday. The veteran second baseman got a late start to the season due to a nagging knee issue.
Apr 24, 2023
Hits first home run
Polanco went 3-for-4 with a home run, two RBI and one run scored in Sunday's win over Washington.
ANALYSIS
Polanco is 5-for-13 with a double and home run in his first three games back from the injured list. There has been talk that the Twins may rest him against a left-handed pitcher this week to ease him back to action, but he may be tough to sit if he stays hot at the plate. He looks back to full strength, but continue to monitor his left knee. Polanco missed the final month of 2022 with a left knee injury, and his progress stalled in the Grapefruit League which delayed his 2023 debut until this weekend.
Apr 21, 2023
Activated from injured list
Polanco (knee) was activated Friday from the 15-day injured list, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco is set to make his 2023 debut Friday night against the Nationals after missing the first three weeks of the season because of a lingering left knee injury. He slashed just .231/.323/.269 over 31 plate appearances on his eight-game minor-league rehab assignment, but the 29-year-old should be a useful fantasy option at second base as he returns to the Twins' active roster. Edouard Julien was sent out to Triple-A St. Paul in a corresponding move.
Apr 20, 2023
Closing in on return
Twins manager Rocco Baldelli said Thursday that Polanco (knee) is "pretty close to coming back," Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Park suspects that Polanco will be activated in the early portion of the Twins' upcoming homestand, which begins Friday against the Nationals and runs through April 30. Polanco has already played in eight minor-league rehab games between Single-A Fort Myers and Triple-A St. Paul, though he's slashed just .231/.323/.269 across 31 plate appearances. The 29-year-old second baseman is recovering from a lingering left injury. He said Wednesday that it's "100 percent" healthy.
Apr 19, 2023
Says knee is 100 percent
Polanco told Alec Ausmus of KSTP-TV in an interview Wednesday that his left knee feels "100 percent."
ANALYSIS
Polanco did add regarding the knee that he "might need to strengthen it a little bit more." The second baseman moved his rehab assignment up to Triple-A St. Paul on Tuesday and is expected to remain there a little bit longer to knock some rust off. Polanco is on track to be activated before the end of April.
Apr 18, 2023
Rehab moved up to Triple-A
Polanco (knee) has been moved up to Triple-A St. Paul to continue his rehab assignment, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco went 5-for-18 with one double in six games with Low-A Fort Myers and is now ready to rest things out against stiffer competition. The veteran second baseman is working his way back from a left knee issue and should be ready for his season debut in the next week or so.
Apr 16, 2023
Plays back-to-back rehab games
Polanco (knee) went 1-for-4 Sunday for Low-A Fort Myers, playing in back-to-back games for the first time this season. His rehab assignment could be transferred to Triple-A St. Paul soon and be activated in about a week, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco missed the final month of 2022 with a knee injury, and his progress stalled in the Grapefruit League. He began a rehab assignment April 6 and the Twins said they wanted him to get in several weeks of work before activating him from the injured list. He's hitting .278 (5-for-8) with three walks in six games at Fort Myers.
Apr 7, 2023
Set for second rehab game
Polanco (knee) is scheduled to play seven innings in his second rehab game Saturday with Low-A Fort Myers, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco played five innings at second base in his rehab debut Thursday and went 1-for-3 with a single and two strikeouts. He could advance to another level after Saturday's game, but the Twins generally want to slow-play this rehab assignment because Polanco missed most of spring training with a lingering left knee injury. There's no exact timetable for his 2023 debut.
Apr 6, 2023
Starting rehab assignment
Polanco (knee) will begin a rehab assignment with Low-A Fort Myers on Thursday.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will play second base and bat second for the Mighty Mussels. It's not clear how many rehab games the veteran infielder will require before being activated, as it could depend on how his left knee is feeling. Polanco is eligible for activation at any time.
Mar 30, 2023
Placed on IL, murky return date
Polanco (knee) was placed on the 10-day injured list. He ran the bases before the Twins departed spring training and plans to take some live at-bats this week, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. "I think the one thing that we all need to be cognizant of is that Jorge hasn't had a spring training this year and the smart thing, and I think the wise thing, to do is to allow him to progress along like we have allowed the 26 guys that are on our team," Twins head trainer Nick Paparesta said.
ANALYSIS
Polanco missed the final month of 2022 with a knee injury, and his progress stalled in the Grapefruit League. Just a week ago the Twins were talking about him playing in minor league games, but now it sounds like any game action may be weeks away. Paparesta's comments make it sound like his ramp up could extend into late April or early May.
Mar 27, 2023
To hit in front of trainers Tuesday
Polanco (knee) will do some hitting in front of trainers Tuesday before the Twins determine his next step, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco is going through baseball activities without limitations but hasn't done any live hitting since he had a little setback with his surgically-repaired left knee in mid-March. He will remain in extended spring training while the club heads north and it's not clear at this time how long he might be sidelined.
Mar 25, 2023
Could play in game Tuesday
Polanco (knee) is scheduled to play in a minor league spring training game Tuesday, LaVelle E. Neal of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. He will first hit in the batting cage and take grounders Saturday.
ANALYSIS
The 29-year-old missed the final month of 2022 with a knee injury, and his progress stalled in the Grapefruit League. He's set to begin the regular season on the injured list. This looks like a significant step in his return as he had not played in any games this spring. He still likely has several major hurdles to clear, but this gives hope he could return earlier rather than later in the regular season.
Mar 22, 2023
Will begin year on injured list
Polanco (knee) will begin the 2023 season on the injured list, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
It seemed to be pointing in this direction, but it's now official that Polanco won't be ready for the start of the 2023 season. The 29-year-old missed the final month of 2022 with a knee injury, and his progress stalled in the Grapefruit League. Polanco will miss at least the first few weeks of the season, and he will likely return to a regular role with the club at some point in April.
Mar 19, 2023
May begin season on injured list
Polanco (knee) could begin the season on the injured list after feeling "normal soreness" a couple of times after taking batting practice this spring, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports. "Jorge has looked good in live BP, swinging the bat," Twins president of baseball operations Derek Falvey said. "There has been no setback. We're just running out of days."
ANALYSIS
Twins management had been saying Polanco was on track for Opening Day even a week ago, but it sounds like his progress has stalled and its worrisome that it could be a setback. Polanco missed the final month of last season with a knee injury. He's been doing back-field work, but has not played in a game. He may need several weeks of extended spring training before he's ready to play in the Twins lineup.
Mar 18, 2023
Opening Day status in question
Polanco's availability for Opening Day could be in question since he has not played in a spring training game as he works his way back from last season's knee injury, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Twins president of baseball operations Derek Falvey said earlier in the week that Polanco was on track for Opening Day, but manager Rocco Baldelli appeared to be more evasive Friday and said he would have an update in a few days, the report adds. Polanco missed the final month of last season with a knee injury. He's been doing back-field work, but it's getting late enough in spring training that his absence from even a minor league spring game is causing some concern.
Mar 10, 2023
No games yet not health-related
Polanco has yet to play in any Grapefruit League games for the Twins this spring, but that's not due to his health, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco missed the final month of last season with a knee injury, so his absence this spring might seem red flag-worthy. However, Gleeman writes that the infielder is "healthy and doing ample, daily behind-the-scenes work," so there doesn't appear to be any cause for concern. Polanco will see some Grapefruit League action eventually and is expected to be ready to roll for Opening Day.
Jan 31, 2023
Says knee is ready to go
Polanco says he's ready to go for spring training after missing the last month of the 2022 season due to a knee injury, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco missed a week with patellar tendinitis before he landed on the injured list Sept. 3. He then worked his way back to playing minor league games before a setback in late September. It sounds like he just needed some rest to get back to full strength, but watch his status early in spring training. His injury risk has become a concern after a chronic ankle injury also hindered his 2020 season.
Sep 23, 2022
May not return this year
Polanco is still feeling issues with his left knee and may not return this season, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco hasn't played in nearly a month due to left knee inflammation. Given that the Twins have endured a late-season collapse and are out of the playoff picture, there's now little reason to rush Polanco back if he's anything short of 100 percent.
Sep 17, 2022
Pulled from rehab game
Polanco was removed from Friday's rehab start at Triple-A St. Paul due to knee discomfort, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco began his rehab assignment Friday, but it's discouraging that he was unable to make it through the game at St. Paul. He's slated to have an active recovery day and receive treatment Saturday, and a better idea of his status should come into focus based on how he feels afterward.
Sep 16, 2022
Starting rehab Friday
Polanco (knee) will begin a rehab stint with Triple-A St. Paul on Friday, Brandon Warne of Access Twins reports.
ANALYSIS
It originally didn't seem like Polanco would need to play some games in the minors before returning, but that is exactly what he will be doing for the next couple days. Polanco's knee has kept him out of action since late-August, and the Twins will have to wait a bit longer before getting their second baseman back.
Sep 14, 2022
Could return this week
Polanco (knee) could be activated from the injured list at some point this week, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco's return date continues to be a moving target as he's been said to be close to returning at several points in the past week. It doesn't sound like he'll need a rehab stint, so he could be activated as early as this weekend.
Sep 10, 2022
Won't return this weekend
Manager Rocco Baldelli said Saturday that he hopes Polanco (knee) will be able to return early-to-mid next week, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Although Polanco is eligible to be reinstated from the injured list during the Twins' weekend series against Cleveland, he'll be held out for at least a few more days. However, he played catch Thursday and seems to be trending in the right direction.
Sep 9, 2022
Plays catch Thursday
Polanco (knee) played catch Thursday, the most baseball activity he's done since landing on the injured list, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco missed a week with patellar tendinitis and then went on the injured list on Sept. 3 He could return Sept. 10, but it doesn't sound like he's making enough progress to return that quickly.
Sep 3, 2022
Bound for injured list
Polanco was placed on the 10-day injured list with left knee inflammation Saturday.
ANALYSIS
Polanco hasn't played in a week while dealing with what had been referred to as patellar tendinitis. The move was backdated the maximum of three days, so he'll be eligible to return next Saturday, though it's not yet clear if that's in play. Jermaine Palacios' contract was selected in a corresponding move.
Sep 3, 2022
Still out of lineup
Polanco (kneecap) isn't starting Saturday against the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco has been dealing with left patellar tendinitis recently and will remain out of the lineup for a sixth consecutive game. Nick Gordon is starting at the keystone and batting fifth.
Sep 2, 2022
Sits fifth straight game
Polanco (kneecap) is not in the lineup Friday against the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
Friday will mark the fifth consecutive game that Polanco's knee issues have kept him out of the lineup for. It has been nearly a week since he has seen the field and it's worth wondering whether or not he will have to spend some time on the injured list if he doesn't return soon.
Aug 31, 2022
Remains sidelined Wednesday
Polanco (kneecap) is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Red Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will sit out a fourth consecutive game while he continues to contend with left patellar tendinitis, affording Nick Gordon another start in the middle infield. The Twins are off Thursday, so the team will presumably wait and see how Polanco is feeling physically in advance of Friday's series opener with the White Sox before having a better sense of whether he'll require a stint on the injured list.
Aug 30, 2022
Sitting again Tuesday
Polanco (kneecap) is out of the lineup for Tuesday's game versus Boston.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will sit for the third consecutive game since exiting Saturday's contest with left patellar tendinitis. Nick Gordon will receive another look at second base with Jake Cave starting in left field.
Aug 29, 2022
Riding pine Monday
Polanco (kneecap) isn't starting Monday against the Reds.
ANALYSIS
Polanco was removed from Saturday's game against San Francisco due to left patellar tendinitis and didn't play Sunday. He'll remain out of the lineup for a second consecutive game Monday while Nick Gordon starts at the keystone and bats fifth.
Aug 28, 2022
Not starting Sunday
Polanco (kneecap) is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Giants.
ANALYSIS
The 29-year-old exited Saturday's contest with left patellar tendinitis, and he'll be held out of the starting nine for at least one game. The severity of the injury remains unclear, and Polanco should be considered day-to-day. Nick Gordon will move to the keystone while Jake Cave starts in left field.
Aug 27, 2022
Exits Saturday's contest early
Polanco left Saturday's game versus the Giants early with an undisclosed injury, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco was replaced at second base by Nick Gordon in the top of the seventh inning, leaving for an unspecified reason. The 29-year-old has dealing with knee soreness over the last week or so, which could be the reason for his removal. More information on his status will likely be provided after the contest.
Aug 22, 2022
Gets rest Monday
Polanco is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Rangers.
ANALYSIS
After missing two games with a knee injury early last week, Polanco checked back into the lineup Friday and played each of the first three contests of the series with the Rangers, going 3-for-10 with a double and a walk. The Twins haven't provided any indication that Polanco is dealing with a setback with the knee, so he's presumably sitting out Monday in a pre-planned maintenance day. Luis Arraez will spell Polanco at the keystone.
Aug 19, 2022
Back in action Friday
Polanco (knee) is starting at second base and batting sixth Friday against the Rangers.
ANALYSIS
The 29-year-old sat out the last two games after suffering the knee injury Monday in Kansas City, but he's apparently good to go after Minnesota's scheduled day off Thursday. Polanco has struggled in 20 games since the All-Star break with a .200/.307/.293 slash line.
Aug 17, 2022
Not in Wednesday's lineup
Polanco (knee) isn't starting Wednesday against the Royals.
ANALYSIS
Polanco sustained a knee injury on a slide Monday and will be out of the lineup for a second consecutive game. It's not yet clear whether he's available off the bench Wednesday, but it wouldn't be surprising to see him sit out since the Twins have a scheduled day off Thursday. Luis Arraez is shifting to the keystone while Jose Miranda starts at first base.
Aug 17, 2022
MRI returns clean
Manager Rocco Baldelli said after Tuesday's win over the Royals that Polanco (knee) underwent an MRI that "came back with good signals," and the second baseman is still considered day-to-day, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
The 29-year-old was held out of the lineup Tuesday after suffering a knee injury during Monday's contest, but it appears he's avoided a serious injury. Polanco seems unlikely to rejoin the lineup Wednesday, especially since the Twins have a scheduled day off Thursday, but a return for Friday's series opener versus the Rangers is more realistic.
Aug 16, 2022
Not starting Tuesday
Polanco (knee) is not in the lineup Tuesday against Kansas City.
ANALYSIS
The infielder should be considered day-to-day after he hurt his knee on a slide Monday. Luis Arraez figures to be the everyday second baseman for however long Polanco is sidelined.
Aug 15, 2022
Gets dinged up
Polanco was removed from Monday's game against the Royals after banging his knee on a slide at the plate, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
This appeared to be a precautionary move by the Twins, though Polanco will likely be checked out by trainers Tuesday to determine his status for the second game of the series. Nick Gordon or Luis Arraez could get a look at the keystone if Polanco is unable to go Tuesday.
Aug 7, 2022
Rises to two hole Sunday
Polanco will start at second base and bat second in Sunday's game against the Blue Jays.
ANALYSIS
With Carlos Correa getting a rare day off, Polanco will move into the No. 2 spot in the lineup for the first time since July 6, which was the last time Correa received a breather. Though Polanco has demonstrated excellent plate discipline since the All-Star break (11 walks against nine strikeouts in 13 games), it hasn't translated into much useful fantasy production (.196 average, zero home runs, zero stolen bases, six runs and three RBI).
Jul 16, 2022
Pops three-run homer
Polanco went 2-for-4 with a three-run home run in Saturday's 6-3 win over the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco's homer was his sixth of July, bringing his total to 14 this season. He's slugging .638 this month and could be in store for another big second half. The middle infielder slashed .287/.329/.585 for Minnesota after the All-Star break last season.
Jul 6, 2022
Blasts pair of homers
Polanco went 2-for-4 with a walk, two home runs and three RBI on Wednesday against the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco went yard in the fifth and seventh innings to bring his homer total on the season to 12. He's been on a power surge since returning from a back injury June 28, smacking five home runs across his last eight starts. Polanco owns a .338 wOBA and 122 wRC+ across 286 plate appearances on the season.
Jul 3, 2022
Solo shot in win
Polanco went 1-for-4 with a solo home run in Saturday's win over the Orioles.
ANALYSIS
Polanco's solo shot tied the game at three in the bottom of the ninth inning. Jose Miranda would hit a walk-off single later in the inning to give the Twins the win. After returning from the IL, Polanco has gone 3-for-16 with two home runs and five strikeouts. The second baseman has a .241 batting average to go along with nine homers after Saturday's game.
Jun 30, 2022
Resting Thursday
Polanco is not in the starting lineup for Thursday's matchup with the Guardians.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will receive a day off after he went 2-for-9 with a home run and three RBI in two consecutive starts following his return from a back injury. Luis Arraez will draw the start at second while Jose Miranda enters the lineup at first base and will bat fifth.
Jun 28, 2022
Belts eighth homer in return
Polanco went 2-for-4 with a walk, a home run and three RBI in a 6-0 win over the Guardians during the second game of Tuesday's doubleheader.
ANALYSIS
Activated off the injured list following Tuesday's matinee, Polanco looked to be completely over his back woes in his first action since June 12. The 28-year-old connected on his eighth homer of the year, a two-run blast off Konnor Pilkington in the third inning that gave the Twins a 3-0 lead. Polanco has a .325/.413/.525 slash line through 11 games in June prior to landing on the IL, and he seems to be picking up right where he left off.
Jun 28, 2022
Activated for Game 2
Polanco (back) was activated off the 10-day injured list to start Game 2 of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Guardians.
ANALYSIS
He was placed on the IL on June 17 with lower-back tightness and never ended up needing a rehab assignment. Polanco should resume a regular role going forward, which could cut into the playing time of Nick Gordon. Prior to going on the shelf, Polanco was hitting .325/.413/.525 with two home runs and one steal in 40 June at-bats.
Jun 24, 2022
Could return next week
Polanco (back) is expected to resume participating in baseball activities Friday, and manager Rocco Baldelli hopes the second baseman will be activated from the 10-day injured list during the upcoming series in Cleveland, which begins Monday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The 28-year-old was eligible to return from the injured list Thursday, and it appears his activation is on the horizon. Polanco may not require a minor-league rehab assignment before being reinstated if his return to baseball activities goes well this weekend.
Jun 22, 2022
No sign of return from injured list
Polanco (back) is unlikely to return from the injured list when eligible Thursday, the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports. "It could be longer than 10 days. I think it's just fair to leave it at that," said manager Rocco Baldelli.
ANALYSIS
Polanco has not started full baseball activities, so he could be out several more weeks since he'll likely need a rehab assignment before returning.
Jun 17, 2022
Heading to injured list
Polanco will be placed on the 10-day injured list Friday with lower-back tightness, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
The 28-year-old hasn't seen the field since Sunday due to the injury, so the Twins have opted to put him on the shelf to recover for at least the next week. Polanco underwent an MRI this week which didn't show any major concerns, though he could be back after the 10-day minimum. Alex Kirilloff will join big club in a corresponding move, though it's likely Luis Arraez who will fill in at second base.
Jun 15, 2022
Remains out of lineup
Polanco (back) isn't starting Wednesday's game against the Mariners.
ANALYSIS
Polanco continues to deal with back soreness and will be held out of the lineup for a third consecutive game. Luis Arraez will shift to the keystone while Jose Miranda draws the start at first base Wednesday.
Jun 14, 2022
Out again Tuesday
Polanco (back) is not in the lineup for Tuesday's game at Seattle, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
The 28-year-old will be withheld from the lineup for the second consecutive game due to back soreness. Polanco should be considered day-to-day, and it remains to be seen whether or not he'll be available off the bench.
Jun 13, 2022
Managing back soreness
Polanco isn't starting Monday against the Mariners after dealing with back soreness Sunday, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco went 0-for-2 with a walk and a strikeout in Sunday's loss to the Rays. He's out of the lineup for the first time since May 26 during Monday's series opener against Seattle, and his absence is apparently due to an injury. It's not yet clear whether he'll be available off the bench, but he should tentatively be considered day-to-day.
Jun 13, 2022
Not in Monday's lineup
Polanco isn't starting Monday against Seattle.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will get a rare day off after he went 5-for-16 with a double, three runs, two RBI, four walks and four strikeouts over the last five games. Luis Arraez is shifting to the keystone while Jose Miranda starts at first base.
Jun 8, 2022
Excellent Offensive Game
Polanco went 4-for-5 with one double, one homer, two RBIs and one run scored in Tuesday's loss to the Yankees.
ANALYSIS
Polanco had an extremely productive game, doubling home Luis Arraez in the third inning and scoring again on a solo shot in the fifth. The four-hit outing raised Polanco's batting average to .240, which is a good sign for fantasy managers who have been patient with the second baseman's slow start to 2022.
May 28, 2022
Clubs fifth homer
Polanco went 2-for-5 with a two-run home run and a second run scored in Friday's 10-7 win over the Royals.
ANALYSIS
Making his return from a three-game absence due to a minor ankle issue, Polanco got the Twins on the board by taking Brad Keller deep in the first inning. The infielder is slashing .237/.335/.385 on the year with five homers, two steals, 20 runs and 26 RBI through 42 games.
May 27, 2022
Back in action Friday
Polanco (ankle) is starting Friday against the Royals, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco missed the last three games due to slight soreness in his right ankle, but he'll start at the keystone and bat third during Friday's matchup. Over his last five games, he's gone 4-for-18 with five runs, three RBI, a stolen base, four walks and six strikeouts.
May 26, 2022
Remains out of lineup
Polanco (ankle) isn't starting Thursday against the Royals.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will be out of the lineup for a third consecutive game due to some slight soreness in his right ankle, but manager Rocco Baldelli is optimistic that the second baseman could return as soon as Friday, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports. The 28-year-old had been playing through the issue recently, but the team wants to give him some time to rest while receiving treatment. Luis Arraez will shift to the keystone while Jose Miranda starts at first base.
May 25, 2022
Dealing with right ankle soreness
Manager Rocco Baldelli said Wednesday that Polanco is dealing with some slight soreness in his right ankle, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
The 28-year-old is out of the lineup for a second consecutive game Wednesday against the Tigers, and his absence is related to an ankle issue. However, Baldelli said the team isn't concerned about Polanco's injury and is hopeful the second baseman will be fine after spending a few days off the field.
May 25, 2022
Remains out of lineup
Polanco isn't starting Wednesday against Detroit.
ANALYSIS
After starting in all but one of the first 42 games of the season, Polanco will be out of the lineup for a second straight game after he went 1-for-4 with a run and two strikeouts in Monday's series opener against the Tigers. The Twins haven't given any indication that Polanco is dealing with an injury, but Nick Gordon will start at the keystone and bat eighth Wednesday.
May 24, 2022
Resting Tuesday
Polanco will sit Tuesday against the Tigers.
ANALYSIS
Polanco finds himself on the bench for just the second time this season. He hasn't been able to repeat his numbers from his strong 2021 campaign, but his .232/.333/.364 slash line is still good for a 110 wRC+ given this year's low-offense environment. Luis Arraez will move to second base in his absence, with Jose Miranda starting at first.
May 7, 2022
Hits game-winning solo shot
Polanco went 3-for-4 with a solo homer in Saturday's 1-0 win over Oakland.
ANALYSIS
Polanco equalled Oakland's hit total and had more hits than the rest of his teammates combined while providing all of the day's scoring. His homer was a two-out shot off James Kaprielian, chasing him from the game. Polanco is now hitting .232/.325/.384 with three homers through 27 games.
May 1, 2022
Drives in four runs
Polanco went 4-for-5 with two doubles, four RBI and a run scored during Sunday's 9-3 win over the Rays.
ANALYSIS
Polanco entered the contest with only two hits over his previous five games, but he erupted for four hits to power Minnesota's offense during the series finale in Tampa Bay. It's been a slow start to 2022 for the 28-year-old, and he now has a .195/.303/.338 slash line with two home runs, 12 RBI and nine runs through 21 games.
Apr 21, 2022
Day off Thursday
Polanco will sit Thursday against the Royals, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco started the first 12 games of the season but will get a rest for the afternoon contest which caps the team's six-game road trip. Luis Arraez will fill in for him at second base.
Apr 18, 2022
Homers, plates four in win
Polanco went 2-for-5 with a home run and four RBI in Monday's win over the Red Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco's first hit of the day came in the top of the third inning when he homered off Rich Hill, driving in teammate Gilberto Celestino. He later added a two-RBI single in the eighth, scoring Gary Sanchez and Luis Arraez. The homer was his second of the season and the two-hit performance was his third multi-hit effort of the 2022 campaign.
Apr 18, 2022
Racking up free passes
Polanco went 0-for-3 with a walk in Sunday's 8-1 loss to the Red Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco has produced only one hit over his last four games, but he's accrued four walks over that stretch to get on base at a .313 clip. The switch-hitting infielder's walk rate currently sits at a career-high 16.7 percent, but a career-worst 30.6 percent strikeout rate has played a large part in his average sitting at a paltry .200 through nine games. He'll be back in the lineup for Monday's Patriots' Day game in Boston, batting leadoff while manning second base, according to Dan Hayes of The Athletic.
Apr 9, 2022
Keeps prominent lineup spot in 2022
Polanco will start at second base and hit cleanup in Saturday's game against the Mariners, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
While slotting third in the order Friday with Seattle bringing lefty Robbie Ray to the hill, Polanco went 0-for-3 with a walk in the Twins' 2-1 loss. Seattle will send a right-hander in Logan Gilbert to the hill Saturday, but Polanco will remain locked into a prominent spot in the order. Polanco's inclusion in the heart of the order versus both lefties and righties comes as little surprise following a career-best 2021 campaign in which he hit .269 with 33 home runs, 98 RBI, 97 runs and 11 stolen bases.
Oct 3, 2021
Homers in first inning
Polanco went 1-for-4 with a three-run homer in Sunday's 7-3 win over the Royals.
ANALYSIS
The Twins had plenty of success at the plate in the first inning Sunday, and Polanco put the team on the board with his three-run blast with no outs in the frame. The 28-year-old closed out the year with hits in eight of his last 10 appearances, and he slashed .269/.323/.503 with 33 home runs, 98 RBI, 97 runs and 11 stolen bases during the 2021 campaign.
Oct 2, 2021
Not in Saturday's lineup
Polanco isn't starting Saturday's game against the Royals.
ANALYSIS
Polanco snapped a five-game hitting streak Friday when he went 0-for-4 with a run, an RBI and a walk. Luis Arraez will shift to the keystone while Willians Astudillo enters the lineup at first base.
Sep 29, 2021
Ignites offense early Wednesday
Buxton went 1-for-3 with a three-run homer in Wednesday's 5-2 win over the Tigers.
ANALYSIS
After Luis Arraez and Byron Buxton opened the game with singles off Detroit starter Casey Mize, Polanco stepped to the plate and launched his 32nd homer of the season. It snapped a nine-game homerless funk for Polanco, who is just 6-for-37 (.162) over his last 10 contests. Despite the recent rough patch, Polanco has been terrific in 2021, hitting .271 with an .832 OPS while establishing career highs in homers and RBI (94). He's also thrown in 11 stolen bases (17 attempts) for good measure.
Sep 26, 2021
Scores lone run in loss
Polanco went 1-for-4 with a stolen base and a run in Saturday's 6-1 loss to Toronto.
ANALYSIS
The infielder singled, stole third and scored on a sacrifice fly by Mitch Garver in the first inning, but that was the extent of Minnesota's run production. Polanco is in a bit of a skid to end the season, going just 3-for-26 across his last seven games. He's still put together a strong .271/.325/.505 slash line with career highs in home runs (31) and RBI (91) while adding 93 runs scored and 10 stolen bases through 146 contests.
Sep 22, 2021
Sits amid slump
Polanco is out of the lineup for Wednesday's game against the Cubs.
ANALYSIS
Polanco has fallen into an 0-for-13 slump at the dish while striking out seven time in the last three games, so he'll be extended a mental break in the series finale. Luis Arraez checks in at second base for Polanco, who should rejoin the lineup Thursday against the Blue Jays.
Sep 17, 2021
Homers in three-hit game
Polanco went 3-for-5 with a two-run home run in Friday's 7-3 win over Toronto.
ANALYSIS
The 28-year-old had the first long ball in a back-to-back-to-back sequence for Minnesota in the third inning, as Josh Donaldson and Miguel Sano followed up with solo shots. Polanco is up to 31 homers this year, seven of which have come in 16 September games. For the year, the infielder is slashing .279/.332/.522 with 90 RBI, 90 runs scored and 10 stolen bases in what's been a career-best year in the power department.
Sep 13, 2021
Crushes homer in loss
Polanco went 1-for-5 with a two-run homer in Monday's loss to the Yankees.
ANALYSIS
The shortstop took Luis Gil deep in the first inning, driving in teammate Luis Arraez. It was his third home run in as many days as he went yard twice Saturday. His 30 home runs, 88 RBI and .519 SLG are all career highs.
Sep 12, 2021
On bench Sunday
Polanco is not in the lineup for Sunday's game against the Royals.
ANALYSIS
After a 3-for-5, two-homer performance Saturday, Polanco is now hitting .326 with six doubles, five home runs and eight RBI in his last 10 games. Luis Arraez is starting at second base and batting third Sunday.
Sep 11, 2021
Goes yard twice
Polanco went 3-for-5 with a pair of home runs and three RBI in Saturday's 9-2 win over the Royals.
ANALYSIS
Polanco's career season continues. He stroked his 28th and 29th homers of the season, extending his career high, and is now slashing .317/.354/.692 with 11 long balls over his last 30 games. Polanco has also driven in a personal-best 86 runs on the year and his .520 slugging percentage would be the best single-season mark of his career.
Sep 6, 2021
Displays power in win
Polanco went 4-for-5 with a solo home run, three doubles and two total runs scored in Monday's 5-2 win over Cleveland.
ANALYSIS
The infielder has collected nine hits in his last four games, and all but one of them have gone for extra bases. Polanco's recent surge has lifted his slash line to .283/.340/.519 across 547 plate appearances. He's added 27 homers, 83 RBI, 84 runs scored, 10 stolen bases and 32 doubles in 128 contests.
Sep 4, 2021
Falls triple shy of cycle
Polanco went 3-for-4 with a homer, a double, a single, two runs scored and two RBI in Saturday's 11-4 loss to the Rays.
ANALYSIS
While the rest of the Twins' bats scuffled, Polanco stayed hot with a stat-stuffing night that saw him fall a three-bagger shy of the cycle. He also homered for the second straight night against the Rays, with this latest round-tripper coming off Tampa Bay starter Chris Archer in the fifth inning. Since July 1, the infielder is hitting .315 with 17 homers and 51 RBI.
Sep 3, 2021
Knocks 25th homer
Polanco went 2-for-4 with a home run and two RBI in Friday's 5-3 loss to the Rays.
ANALYSIS
Polanco got the Twins on the board early with his solo shot off Michael Wacha in the first inning. He later knocked an RBI double in the eighth. It was his first homer since going deep in three straight games from Aug. 23-25 and he's gone 21-for-63 (.333) with nine extra-base hits over his last 15 games. Polanco is slashing .276/.334/.498 with 80 RBI through 125 games.
Aug 26, 2021
On bench Thursday
Polanco isn't starting Thursday's game against the Red Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will get a rare day off after he hit .351 with three homers, two doubles, 13 RBI, five runs and a stolen base across the last eight games. Luis Arraez will shift to the keystone while Willians Astudillo starts at third base.
Aug 26, 2021
Smashes 24th homer
Polanco went 1-for-4 with a two-run home run, a walk and an additional run scored in Wednesday's 9-6 extra-inning win over Boston.
ANALYSIS
The infielder is in a groove at the plate, homering in three straight contests. He's also gone 13-for-37 (.351) across his last eight games with five multi-hit efforts in that span. Polanco has enjoyed a career-best year in the power department with 24 homers and a .496 slugging percentage through 118 games. He's added 76 RBI, 76 runs scored and 10 stolen bases.
Aug 25, 2021
Homers, drives in three
Polance went 2-for-5 with a home run and three RBI Tuesday against the Red Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco delivered a two-run homer in the seventh inning, his 23rd long ball of the season. He's now gone yard in consecutive games, though he's swung a hot bat across his last seven starts. In that span, he's delivered five multi-hit efforts to go along with 11 RBI and three runs scored. For the season, Polanco is hitting .274/.334/.491 with 74 runs scored and 74 RBI across 500 plate appearances.
Aug 18, 2021
Another two-hit effort
Polanco went 2-for-4 with an RBI and a stolen base in Tuesday's 3-1 loss to Cleveland.
ANALYSIS
After his second two-hit game in as many days, Polanco's season average now sits at .270. The stolen base was also his 10th of the season, allowing him to reach double figures in the category for only the second time in his career. He'll start at second base and bat third in Wednesday's series finale.
Aug 17, 2021
Settling in as No. 3 hitter
Polanco will start at second base and bat third Tuesday against Cleveland.
ANALYSIS
Nelson Cruz had typically served as Minnesota's No. 3 hitter before he was dealt to the Rays prior to the trade deadline, but since then, Polanco has seemingly seized hold of the lineup spot that most managers reserve for their team's top hitter. After going 2-for-6 with a walkoff RBI double in Monday's 5-4 series-opening win, Polanco now owns an .814 OPS on the season, and he's supplemented his good work at the plate with nine stolen bases. The 28-year-old has proven to be an outstanding value selection for fantasy managers that nabbed him in the later rounds of drafts.
Aug 11, 2021
Clubs 21st homer in win
Polanco went 2-for-4 with a solo home run and a triple in Wednesday's 1-0 win over the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco was the only Twin to post multiple hits, and he managed to log seven total bases in the low-scoring contest. The 28-year-old has gone deep six times through 10 games in August. He's slashing .274/.334/.494 with 21 homers, 62 RBI, 69 runs scored and nine stolen bases through 452 plate appearances overall. The infielder is one long ball shy of matching his career-high 22 from 2019.
Aug 10, 2021
Day off Tuesday
Polanco will sit Tuesday against the White Sox, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco has swung a hot bat thus far in this second half, slashing .330/.378/.648 with eight homers in 23 games. He'll get a rest Tuesday, with Luis Arraez starting at second base.
Aug 8, 2021
Knocks two home runs
Polanco went 2-for-4 with two homers, a walk and four RBI in Sunday's 7-5 win over Houston.
ANALYSIS
Polanco belted a solo homer in the fifth inning off starter Lance McCullers and later extended Minnesota's lead with a three-run blast in the sixth. The 28-year-old infielder has found some extra pop in August, knocking five homers with 11 RBI in seven games this month. He's up to 20 long balls this season, two shy of his career-high 22 set in 2019. Polanco is slashing .272/.333/.484 through 444 plate appearances.
Aug 8, 2021
Knocks two home runs
Polanco went 2-for-4 with two homers, a walk and four RBI in Sunday's 7-5 win over Houston.
ANALYSIS
Polanco knocked a solo homer in the fifth inning off starter Lance McCullers and later extended Minnesota's lead with a three-run blast in the sixth. The 28-year-old infielder has found some extra pop in August, knocking five homers with 11 RBI in seven games this month. He's up to 20 long balls this season, two shy of his career-high 22 set in 2019. Polanco is slashing .272/.333/.484 through 444 plate appearances.
Aug 4, 2021
Hits another home run
Polanco went 2-for-4 with a solo home run, a walk and another run scored in Wednesday's 6-5 loss to the Reds.
ANALYSIS
The infielder went deep for the third consecutive game and now sits at 18 home runs on the season. Polanco has been on a tear since the All-Star break, hitting .366 with five homers and 12 RBI in 17 games and raising his 2021 OPS to .811. After an underwhelming 2020, the 28-year-old is nearly matching the production from his stellar 2019 campaign.
Aug 4, 2021
Launches game-winner Tuesday
Polanco went 1-for-5 with a three-run home run in Tuesday's 7-5 win over the Reds.
ANALYSIS
He played hero in this one, taking Heath Hembree deep in the ninth inning to put the Twins in the lead for good. The blast extended Polanco's hitting streak to seven games while giving him three long balls in his last five, but he's been on a tear ever since the All-Star break, slashing .358/.394/.642 over his last 17 games.
Jul 29, 2021
Slugs 15th homer
Polanco went 2-for-5 with a two-run home run, two runs scored and a walk Wednesday against the Tigers.
ANALYSIS
Polanco waited until the bottom of the ninth inning to do the majority of his damage as he took Gregory Soto yard for his 15th homer of the season. He's swung the bat well since the All-Star break, collecting at least one hit in 10 of his 12 starts while also recorded three homers, eight RBI and nine runs scored. Overall, he's managed a .266/.329/.454 line across 401 plate appearances while also chipping in nine steals.
Jul 25, 2021
On bench with back issue
Polanco is out of the lineup Sunday against the Angels to rest his lower back, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco has recently been playing through the back issue, so he'll receive the day off for the series finale to help manage the injury. The 28-year-old's performance hasn't seemed to be affected by the injury, as he has a 1.006 OPS in nine games since the All-Star break. Nick Gordon will work at the keystone in his place Sunday.
Jul 24, 2021
Another three-hit effort
Polanco went 3-for-4 with a double and a run scored in Friday's 5-4 win over the Angels.
ANALYSIS
The 28-year-old has turned up the heat at the plate this week, going 10-for-20 with two home runs, two doubles, six RBI and five runs scored in his last five games. Polanco's sudden surge has lifted his season slash line to .266/.329/.453 with 14 homers, 49 RBI and 54 runs scored through 380 plate appearances. He's also provided nine stolen bases, the second-highest total of his career.
Jul 22, 2021
Homers, steals in three-hit game
Polanco went 3-for-4 with a three-run home run, a double, two additional runs scored, a walk and a stolen base in Wednesday's 7-2 win over the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco had quite the offensive night, capping off a three run jack in the sixth inning off Codi Heuer to lengthen the lead. He added a double in the ninth inning and stole third base. The 27-year-old has homered in back-to-back contests. He has six RBI, four runs and a pair of steals over his last three games. On the season, Polanco is slashing .260/.325/.449 with 14 long balls, 49 RBI, 53 runs and nine steals in 372 plate appearances.
Jul 21, 2021
Rips late home run
Polanco went 1-for-4 with a two-run homer in Tuesday's 9-5 loss to the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco's lone hit of the night came at an opportune time as he launched a go-ahead two-run blast in the eighth to put the Twins up 5-4. The hit wouldn't matter in the end after the bullpen gave back the lead in the bottom half of the frame. The 27-year-old has rattled off at least a base knock in eight of his last 10 games and has three homers and three multi-hit efforts over that span too. For the year, he's slashing .255/.319/.433 with 13 homers, 46 RBI, 50 runs scored, eight steals and a 29:55 BB:K over 357 plate appearances.
Jul 19, 2021
Sitting for Game 2
Polanco isn't in the starting lineup for Game 2 of Monday's doubleheader against the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco picked up a stolen bag, two base knocks and an RBI in Game 1, and he'll get the rest of the day off. Luis Arraez draws the start at second base and bats leadoff in Polanco's place.
Jul 11, 2021
Crushes walkoff homer
Polanco went 3-for-6 with a homer, five RBI and a steal in Sunday's 12-9 win over Detroit.
ANALYSIS
Polanco's 12th long ball of the season was a three-run, walkoff blast in the 10th inning. He also tallied his seventh steal of the year and first since June 24. The 28-year-old infielder has three homers and 12 RBI in July. For the season, Polanco is slashing .252/.318/.431.
Jun 30, 2021
Retreats to bench
Polanco isn't starting Wednesday's game against the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will get a rare day off after he went 4-for-18 with a double, three runs, an RBI, a stolen base and four walks across his last five games. Luis Arraez will start at second base and lead off.
Jun 24, 2021
Productive in loss
Polanco went 2-for-3 with a walk and a stolen base against Cleveland on Thursday.
ANALYSIS
Polanco continued his terrific month of June, stroking a single in the seventh and a double in the ninth. He also swiped a base following his seventh-inning knock, Polanco's sixth steal in seven opportunities. The 27-year-old has recovered from a slow start to the season to slash .305/.356/.524 in 20 games this month.
Jun 19, 2021
Steals base in win
Polanco went 1-for-4 with a walk, a stolen base and two runs scored in Friday's 7-5 extra-inning win over Texas.
ANALYSIS
Polanco drew a walk, stole second and scored the third run of Minnesota's three-run rally in the 10th inning. The 27-year-old has recorded steals in each of the last two games after not attempting a stolen base since May 16. He's now slashing .254/.319/.441 with nine home runs, 30 RBI, 39 runs scored and five steals across 263 plate appearances.
Jun 13, 2021
Homers in three-hit game
Polanco went 3-for-4 with a home run and three RBI in Saturday's 5-2 win over the Astros.
ANALYSIS
Polanco hit a two-run home run off Luis Garcia in the fifth inning to lengthen the Twins' lead. In addition, he added a pair of singles and a third RBI in the game. The 27-year-old is slashing .251/.320/.447 with nine homers, 30 RBI and a team-leading 33 runs scored. He also has three stolen bases this season.
Jun 11, 2021
Not starting Friday
Polanco is not in the starting lineup Friday against the Astros, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will get his first rest of June during Friday's series opener. Nick Gordon will start at second base and bat seventh.
Jun 10, 2021
Homers twice in loss
Polanco went 2-for-5 with two home runs and three RBI in Wednesday's 9-6 loss to the Yankees.
ANALYSIS
Polanco homered in the third inning off Gerrit Cole and he hit the foul pole in the ninth inning off Brooks Kriske. He has eight long balls this season, but four have come in the last nine games. The 27-year-old is slashing .242/.310/.430 with eight home runs, 27 RBI, 31 runs and three steals in 232 plate appearances. His 31 runs lead the Twins.
Jun 5, 2021
Homers in blowout loss
Polanco went 2-for-4 with a solo home run, a walk and two runs scored in Friday's 14-5 loss to the Royals.
ANALYSIS
Polanco's home run didn't mean much in terms of the score as the Twins were already down 13-1 but he did post a second straight multi-hit game and has hits in six of his last eight contests. Overall, the 27-year-old is slashing .243/.318/.418 with six homers, 24 RBI, 29 runs scored and three stolen bases to go along with a 20:37 BB:K. He has not been hitting the ball as well in comparison to recent years but owns a 9.6 percent walk rate which is on pace to be the highest he's had in a full season since entering the league in 2014.
May 31, 2021
Clocks clutch homer
Polanco went 1-for-5 with a home run and two RBI in Monday's 3-2 win over the Orioles in 10 innings.
ANALYSIS
After putting the Twins on the board in the third inning with a fielder's choice grounder that scored the game's first run, Polanco supplied some important insurance in extra innings. The Twins took a 2-1 lead when Rob Refsnyder scored on a wild pitch early in the inning, but Polanco's two-out solo shot held up as the difference after the Orioles came through with a run in the bottom half of the 10th. Polanco has now produced four extra-base hits (two home runs and two doubles) over his last six starts.
May 26, 2021
Starting job reopens
Polanco will start at second base and bat second Wednesday against the Orioles, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Before he returned Tuesday from a four-game absence due to an ankle injury, Polanco appeared in danger of slipping into more of a part-time role with Minnesota lineup nearly at full strength minus Byron Buxton (hip). However, with Luis Arraez (shoulder) joining Buxton on the injured list Wednesday, Polanco looks to have a fairly clear path to an everyday job. Polanco will likely need to improve on his middling .232/.305/.381 slash line to ensure he remains a regular in the starting nine once Arraez is back in the fold.
May 26, 2021
Homers in return
Polanco went 1-for-4 with a solo home run Tuesday against the Orioles.
ANALYSIS
Polanco was absent from the lineup for four consecutive games prior to Tuesday due to an ankle injury. However, he homered off Dean Kremer in his first at-bat of the contest for his fifth long ball of the season. Despite the encouraging effort, Polanco has failed to record multiple hits in any of his last 10 starts, during which time he has only six knocks in 36 at-bats.
May 25, 2021
Returns to lineup
Polanco (ankle) is batting fifth and playing second base in Tuesday's game against the Orioles.
ANALYSIS
His ankle appears to be fine, as he pinch-ran in Monday's contest and now returns to the starting lineup Tuesday against righty Dean Kremer. The switch hitter has struggled at the plate this year, but especially so against right-handed pitchers-Polanco has just a .584 OPS in 113 plate appearances against righties.
May 25, 2021
Gets back on field
Polanco (ankle) appeared as a pinch runner and played second base in Monday's win over Baltimore.
ANALYSIS
Polanco did not start for a fourth consecutive game due to a sore ankle, which is concerning given he's had ankle injuries the past two seasons. Polanco played with a bone spur and a small bone chip on his right ankle which required surgery after last season.
May 24, 2021
Still sidelined Monday
Polanco (ankle) remains out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Orioles, Roch Kubatko of MASNSports.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will be on the bench for a fourth consecutive game due to right ankle soreness. Andrelton Simmons will start at shortstop while Nick Gordon takes over at second base.
May 23, 2021
Sidelined for third straight
Polanco (ankle) remains out of the lineup for Sunday's game in Cleveland.
ANALYSIS
He'll be on the bench for the third game in a row since being lifted in the second half of Thursday's doubleheader with the Angels due to a sore right ankle. Andrelton Simmons and Luis Arraez will man the middle-infield spots Sunday while Polanco is sidelined.
May 22, 2021
Sitting again Saturday
Polanco (ankle) remains on the bench for Saturday's game in Cleveland, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco left the second game of Thursday's doubleheader against the Angels with a sore right ankle and did not take part in Friday's contest. He'll remain on the bench Saturday, with Luis Arraez starting at second base.
May 21, 2021
Out of Friday's lineup
Polanco (ankle) is not in the lineup Friday at Cleveland.
ANALYSIS
The 27-year-old was lifted from the second game of Thursday's doubleheader with ankle soreness, and he'll miss at least one game due to the injury. Luis Arraez will cover the keystone in Polanco's place Friday, while Trevor Larnach starts in left field.
May 20, 2021
Removed as precation
Polanco (ankle) was removed for precautionary reasons in the second game of the team's doubleheader Thursday against the Angels, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco was removed in sixth inning of the game with ankle soreness and was replaced by Willians Astudillo. However, it appears he avoided serious injury and could be still be available for the team's weekend series against Cleveland.
May 20, 2021
Removed due to ankle soreness
Polanco was removed from the second game of the team's doubleheader Thursday against the Angels, Phil Miller of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco was removed in the sixth inning after going 0-for-2 with a walk and a run scored. Willians Astudillo entered the game at third base, with Luis Arraez shifting to cover Polanco's absence at second base.
May 12, 2021
Talies third homer
Polanco went 2-for-4 with a solo home run Tuesday against the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco took Dylan Cease yard in the second inning to record his third home run of the season. After logging only three extra-base hits in his first 19 games, Polanco now has five doubles, one triple and three home runs across his last 10 contests. His overall line has steadily improved to .246/.313/.404 with 15 RBI and 16 runs scored across 128 plate appearances.
May 8, 2021
Productive at plate Friday
Polanco went 2-for-3 with a solo home run, an RBI double, two walks and two total runs scored in Friday's 7-3 win over Detroit.
ANALYSIS
Polanco put together just his second game where he reached base four times, and his first game where he drew multiple walks this season. The 27-year-old infielder is up to two home runs, 14 RBI, 15 runs scored and two stolen bases through 119 plate appearances. He still has a career-worst slash line of .219/.294/.352 in 29 games, but he's shown signs of improvement with multiple hits in three of the last seven contests.
May 6, 2021
Retreats to bench
Polanco isn't in the lineup for Thursday's game against the Rangers.
ANALYSIS
Polanco had gone 0-for-7 with a walk and six strikeouts in the last two games. Nick Gordon will make his major-league debut at second base and bat seventh.
May 3, 2021
Turns in big day at dish
Polanco went 2-for-3 with a double, a triple, two RBI, a walk and a run scored Monday against the Rangers.
ANALYSIS
Polanco drove in a run in the sixth on a triple to center, and he added an important insurance run in the eighth by doubling home another. Following his multi-hit performance, the 27-year-old is slashing .223/.286/.330 with one home run, 12 RBI and two stolen bases through 25 games.
May 2, 2021
Bows out of starting nine
Polanco is out of the lineup for Sunday's game against the Royals.
ANALYSIS
Luis Arraez will fill in at second base for Polanco, who is sitting out for only the second time all season. Over 101 plate appearances, Polanco has managed a weak .209/.267/.286 slash line. More days off could be in his future if he's unable to catch fire at the plate sooner or later.
Apr 28, 2021
Clubs two-run homer
Polanco went 1-for-5 with a two-run home run and an additional run scored during Wednesday's 10-2 win at Cleveland.
ANALYSIS
The 27-year-old received his first off day of the season Tuesday and rejoined the lineup Wednesday with his first homer of 2021. Polanco has a .193/.258/.265 slash line with three doubles, two stolen bases, 10 RBI and 11 runs scored through 22 games.
Apr 27, 2021
Getting first day off
Polanco is out of the lineup for Tuesday's game against Cleveland.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will head to the bench for the first time all season, breaking a streak of 21 consecutive starts. The day off will give Polanco the chance to reset after he followed up a season-best four-hit effort April 21 in Oakland with a 1-for-12 showing over his subsequent four games.
Apr 21, 2021
Four hits in Wednesday's loss
Polanco went 4-for-6 with two runs, an RBI and a stolen base in Wednesday's 13-12 extra-inning loss to the A's.
ANALYSIS
All four hits were singles, but Polanco still got his share of the production in a wild affair. The infielder has struggled to get into a groove at the plate to begin the season, but Wednesday's performance boosted his slash line to .212/.274/.258.
Apr 14, 2021
Plates two runs in Game 1
Polanco went 1-for-3 with two RBI in the first game of Wednesday's doubleheader against the Red Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco returned to the lineup after receiving rest Monday and made his presence felt, as he plated the team's lone two runs of the contest with a two-run single that scored Ryan Jeffers and JT Riddle. The shortstop might have been Minnesota's lone source of offense in this game, but he has endured a tough start to the season and has recorded hits in just five of his 11 contests to date.
Apr 12, 2021
Receives rest
Polanco is out of the lineup for Monday's game against the Red Sox.
ANALYSIS
Minnesota is opening its four-game series against Boston with a day game, so Polanco will sit out in what appears to be a pre-planned rest day. Luis Arraez will fill in at the keystone for Polanco, who started in each of the Twins' first nine games. The 27-year-old has endured a brutal start to the campaign, going 5-for-40 with zero home runs, a stolen base, five runs and three RBI.
Apr 6, 2021
Gets turn at shortstop
Polanco will start at shortstop and bat second Tuesday against the Tigers, Do-Hyoung Park of MLB.com reports.
ANALYSIS
With manager Rocco Baldelli extending Andrelton Simmons a day off, Polanco will move off second base for the first time this season after having made all four of his starts at the position. Polanco has played a small part in Minnesota's 23-run outburst between its last two games, going 2-for-9 with a walk while scoring three times and driving in one.
Mar 21, 2021
Rejoins lineup Sunday
Polanco (thigh) will start at second base and bat cleanup in Sunday's spring game against the Orioles.
ANALYSIS
The 27-year-old has been sidelined the past few days by left adductor tightness, but he'll return to Grapefruit League action Sunday. Barring a setback, Polanco shouldn't have any issues being available for Opening Day.
Mar 19, 2021
Gets back on practice field
Polanco hit and took grounders Friday in his first action since suffering a left adductor injury Tuesday, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
The adductor is a muscle by the groin/thigh area. It's a good sign that Polanco is already taking part in baseball activities and the Twins have said the injury isn't severe. Still, his status for Opening Day should be monitored the next week. Luis Arraez would likely take over everyday duty at second base if Polanco is sidelined.
Mar 16, 2021
Day-to-day with adductor tightness
Polanco left Tuesday's game against the Pirates with left adductor tightness and is considered day-to-day, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
The adductor is a muscle by the groin/thigh area, and if the tightness turns out to be a strain, Polanco's status for Opening Day would be in doubt. For now it sounds like a day-to-day issue, however. His injury opens up more playing time for Luis Arraez in the short term.
Mar 14, 2021
Hot start this spring
Polanco went 2-for-3 in Sunday's spring training win over Boston. He's hitting .333 (6-for-18) this spring.
ANALYSIS
Polanco has moved to second base after the Twins signed Andrelton Simmons. Polanco has had some ups and downs at second base, but he should improve as he adjusts to the new position which he played frequently in the minors. Polanco is showing his bat could bounce back from last year's subpar performance ( .258 with a .658 OPS) simply from improved health. Polanco underwent surgery in October to remove a bone spur and a small bone chip from his right ankle which bothered him last year.
Jan 26, 2021
Shifting to second base
Polanco (ankle) will move to second base for 2021 after the Twins signed Andrelton Simmons on Tuesday, Jeff Passan of ESPN.com reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco has primarily played shortstop since making his big-league debut in 2014, but he did play second base during his time in the minors. Simmons is joining the team on a one-year, $10.5 million deal, and it's no surprise he'll be taking over at shortstop, since he's one of the best defenders in the league, regardless of position. As a result of the signing, Luis Arraez is also expected to move into a utility role for Minnesota. Polanco underwent surgery in October to remove a bone spur and a small bone chip from his right ankle, but he's expected to be ready for the start of spring training.
Oct 12, 2020
Undergoes ankle surgery
Polanco underwent surgery to remove a mild bone spur and a small bone chip on his right ankle Monday, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Reports emerged in early October that the shortstop had played hurt throughout the season, which could help explain his uninspiring .258/.304/.354 slash line. As it turns out, the injury was bad enough to require surgery. The procedure isn't expected to set Polanco back too much, though, as he'll start physical therapy in a week and should be ready for spring training.
Oct 1, 2020
Played hurt throughout season
Polanco's ankle bothered him throughout the season more than previously reported, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco was healthy enough to start 53 games at shortstop but was playing at less than full strength for much of the year. That could help explain why his slash line fell from .295/.356/.485 in 2019 to .258/.304/.354 this season and presumably gives some reason to believe he'll bounce back in 2021.
Sep 23, 2020
Back in lineup
Polanco (ankle) returns to the lineup Wednesday against Detroit, batting seventh and playing shortstop.
ANALYSIS
Polanco missed Tuesday's game with a sore ankle, though the issue was evidently a very minor one. Even with the Twins having already clinched a playing berth, the team evidently sees no reason to have him sit for the second straight day.
Sep 22, 2020
Nursing sore ankle
Polanco is sitting out Tuesday's game against the Tigers with ankle soreness, LaVelle E. Neal III of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
ANALYSIS
It's unclear when the 27-year-old picked up the injury, but he's receiving the day off Tuesday as a result. Neal indicates the Twins hope he'll be back in the lineup Wednesday, but it also wouldn't be surprising to see them give him additional rest in front of Thursday's scheduled off day.
Sep 22, 2020
Riding pine Tuesday
Polanco isn't starting Tuesday against the Tigers.
ANALYSIS
Polanco recorded hits in each of the past two contests, but he's struck out seven times over the last four games. He'll retreat to the bench as Ehire Adrianza starts at shortstop.
Sep 16, 2020
Out of Wednesday's lineup
Polanco is not in the lineup Wednesday against the White Sox.
ANALYSIS
Polanco is 2-for-17 over his last five games and will take a seat for Wednesday's contest. Ehire Adrianza will start at shortstop in his place versus White Sox starter Lucas Giolito.
Sep 8, 2020
Not in Game 2 lineup
Polanco isn't starting the second game of Tuesday's doubleheader against the Cardinals.
ANALYSIS
Polanco will take a seat after hitting a single and crossing the plate once during Game 1. Ehire Adrianza will take over at shortstop.
Sep 7, 2020
Not in Monday's lineup
Polanco will sit Monday against Detroit.
ANALYSIS
Polanco sits after starting 15 straight games. He's hitting a solid .285 this season, but his walk rate and power have both fallen off, giving him a mediocre .285/.321/.399 slash line. Ehire Adrianza will get the start at shortstop in his absence.
Sep 5, 2020
Blasts Game 1 home run
Polanco went 1-for-3 with a solo home run during the win in Game 1 of Friday's doubleheader against the Tigers.
ANALYSIS
Polanco got the Twins off to a good start with a leadoff home run, and Josh Donaldson went yard in the following at-bat as well. The two runs proved to be the only run production of the matinee. Polanco is now hitting .269 with four home runs and 17 RBI this season.
Aug 31, 2020
Homers in win
Polanco went 2-for-4 with a solo home run in Sunday's loss to the Tigers.
ANALYSIS
The Twins were held in check by the Tigers' pitching staff Sunday, but Polanco managed to blast a long ball in the third inning to give the team a brief lead. The shortstop is now hitting .279 with three home runs and 16 RBI this season.
Aug 21, 2020
Heads to bench
Polanco will sit Friday against the Royals.
ANALYSIS
Polanco hits the bench for just the third time this season. Ehire Adrianza will fill in for him at shortstop.
Aug 12, 2020
Smacks second homer
Polanco went 2-for-5 with a solo home run in Tuesday's 6-4 loss to the Brewers.
ANALYSIS
The shortstop yanked the first pitch he saw from Josh Lindblom down the right-field line and into the seats to open the scoring in the first inning. Polanco has had a solid start to the year, slashing .290/.319/.391 through 18 games with two homers, seven RBI and nine runs.
Aug 3, 2020
Sits for first time
Polanco is not in the lineup Monday against the Pirates.
ANALYSIS
Both Polanco and left fielder Eddie Rosario will rest for the first time this year in Monday's game. Ehire Adrianza will enter the lineup at shortstop.
Jul 29, 2020
Goes yard Tuesday
Polanco went 2-for-4 with a two-run home run in Tuesday's 6-3 win over the Cardinals.
ANALYSIS
His second-inning blast off Carlos Martinez capped a five-run eruption that effectively decided the game, and gave Polanco his first homer of the year. The 27-year-old shortstop is now 6-for-17 to begin the season with four RBI and five runs through four games, and after a breakout 2019 he could be ready to solidify his spot as one of the key hitters in the Twins' formidable attack.
Jul 15, 2020
Homers in scrimmage
Polanco hit a home run in Tuesday's scrimmage, the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco started spring training slowly after he required surgery on his right ankle in the offseason, but was able to play in spring training games before the shutdown. He looks ready for the start of the 60-game regular season from his play in summer camp. The ankle issue never forced Polanco to miss any action in 2019, as he suited up for a career-high 153 games and slashed an impressive .295/.356/.485 en route to earning his first All-Star nod.
Mar 3, 2020
Returns to infield
Polanco (ankle) will start at shortstop and bat second Tuesday in the Twins' Grapefruit League game against the Tigers, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
The Twins have brought Polanco along slowly this spring after he required surgery on his right ankle in the offseason. After Polanco made his Grapefruit League debut as a designated hitter Sunday, he'll now draw back into his normal position in the field, signaling that the Twins are comfortable where he stands on the health front. Polanco is once again expected to occupy a prominent spot in one of the majors' more potent lineups in 2020.
Mar 1, 2020
Making spring debut at DH
Polanco (ankle) is batting third as the designated hitter in Sunday's Grapefruit League game against the Rays, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
Thee 26-year-old has been held out through the early portions of spring training while continuing his recovery from right ankle surgery in November, but he appears to be nearing full clearance. Polanco figures to return to the field at shortstop in the near future, but for now he'll stick with hitting and running the bases.
Feb 16, 2020
Nearing full clearance
Polanco (ankle) ran near 100 percent Saturday, Betsy Helfand of the St. Paul Pioneer Press reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco is still awaiting clearance before fully going 100 percent, but he appears to be in the final stages of the recovery from right ankle surgery in November. The 26-year-old seems likely to be able to be ready for Opening Day if cleared relatively soon, though it's worth keeping an eye on his status as spring training progresses.
Feb 13, 2020
Hits in batting cage
Polanco (ankle) was in the batting cage Wednesday and did not appear to have any limitations, Aaron Gleeman of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
Polanco underwent surgery Nov. 22 to address a right ankle impingement. It's thought he'll be ready for Opening Day, but monitor his progress early in spring training.
Nov 27, 2019
Undergoes ankle procedure
Polanco underwent surgery Nov. 22 to address a right ankle impingement and is expected to resume baseball activities in six weeks, Dan Hayes of The Athletic reports.
ANALYSIS
The recovery timeline should allow Polanco to return to full health by the time spring training arrives. According to Brandon Warne of ZoneCoverage.com, Polanco will be confined to a walking boot for the next couple weeks before resuming strengthening work for the ankle, which had been a chronic concern for the 26-year-old. The ankle issue never forced Polanco to miss any action in 2019, as he suited up for a career-high 153 games and slashed an impressive .2925/.356/.485 en route to earning his first All-Star nod.
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