SEATTLE — A new wave is brewing in Seattle. Jorge Polanco, a versatile player, outstanding switch-hitter, and currently a free agent, has just announced a $48 million contract demand over four years, a piece of news revealed last weekend that has left Mariners fans holding their breath.
According to The Seattle Times, Polanco is seeking a four-year contract, at least $12 million per year. If other teams meet this salary, the Mariners will likely be unable to keep up, as the team’s current budget can hardly justify such a high cost.
This means that, even if Seattle fans want Polanco back — the player who helped them explode in the 2025 season — the chances of him returning to the vacant spot are very low.
“If Polanco were to return to the Mariners for something like $48 million, it would be clearly out of reach for the team,” the source said.
At 32, Polanco is in the midst of a “high-risk” season. In 2025, he had a .265 batting average, .495 slugging, an .821 OPS, 26 home runs, 30 doubles, and 78 RBIs—his best season since 2021.
However, many experts have noted that 2025 could be an outlier, given Polanco’s mediocre 2022–24 form and his defensive ability has declined over time.
“If he repeats his 2025 season, the salary Polanco is asking for could be reasonable. But if he returns to his previous form, $48 million would be too much for the Mariners,” one analyst said.
Polanco is expected to close the deal this week at the Winter Meetings. All Seattle fans can do is wait to hear whether he will choose a team, or if the Mariners will look for a replacement.
Seattle really wants Polanco back — a player who can play a key role in both the DH and infield. But the final decision will depend on the final cost and whether the Mariners can meet the budget.
“Seattle would bring him back if the price was right. But $48 million is clearly out of reach,” the analyst predicted.
Polanco’s story underscores the cutthroat nature of the MLB offseason: a good season doesn’t guarantee a long-term contract; budget, age, and defensive risk are all factors to consider.
For the Mariners, losing Polanco could create a huge void in the infield and DH, forcing the team to find a replacement — a challenge heading into the 2026 season. On the other hand, if Polanco returns at a reasonable salary, it could be a huge boost for the Mariners to continue competing in the AL West.
All that remains is for Jorge Polanco to make a final decision. A decision that could cost Seattle a “golden piece” or keep a player who could change the entire season. A $48 million contract? A new season of hope or financial worries? The answer will come this week — and Mariners fans, no doubt, are holding their breath watching Polanco’s every move.
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