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.

The New York Mets need an outfielder and could acquire one in a trade with the San Diego Padres by parting with David Peterson.

The Mets’ latest signing may have eliminated a key suitor for Willson Contreras, shrinking the Cardinals’ trade market.

While neither Francisco Lindor nor Fernando Tatis Jr. are part of the talks, the teams are engaging in trade discussions.

Earlier in the offseason, the Mets traded outfielder Brandon Nimmo to Texas for second baseman Marcus Semien. They also had signed former Yankees reliever Devin Williams, before adding infielder/designated hitter Jorge Polanco on Saturday for two years and $40 million.