SEATTLE — As MLB’s stormy winter enters its decisive phase, an announcement from Jorge Polanco has stunned Mariners fans: despite the opportunity to wave the “free agent” flag with a $48 million offer (“four-year deal, at least $12 million/year”), Polanco affirms that he wants to commit his future to the Mariners — where he recently revived his career after a breakout 2025 season.
After a year of hard work — .265 BA, .495 slugging, .821 OPS, 26 home runs, 78 RBIs in 138 regular season games, plus pivotal playoff moments that helped the Mariners advance — Polanco has not only restored his image, but also regained confidence. It wasn’t simply a bounce back from injury: it was a declaration of “I’m still here, for the Mariners, for the fans.”
In 2024, Polanco struggled with a knee injury that severely impacted his performance: he hit .213, with an OPS of .651—a career low.
Many thought it was the end. But after knee surgery and hard work during the offseason, the 2025 season turned into a spectacular resurgence:
He moved from infielder to DH to reduce pressure on his legs—a strategic choice that helped him maintain his fitness.
The result: 26 home runs, 78 RBIs, 30 doubles, a significantly reduced strikeout rate (around 15.6%), and an OPS of .821—marking his best season since 2021.
In the playoffs, Polanco continued to shine—playing a crucial role in helping the Mariners reach the Championship.
Many experts believe 2025 could be a rare bright spot — but Polanco himself says otherwise: he wants to maintain progress. And his declaration of loyalty to Seattle is the strongest proof.
Rumors of a $48 million offer have led many other teams to aggressively pursue Polanco. But faced with the easiest choice — money + fame — Polanco chose to stay. The reason? Faith in the Mariners, in his teammates, and in the fans.
For the Mariners, Polanco is more than just a home run, a statistic. He is a symbol of perseverance, resilience, and dedication. Keeping him isn’t just about keeping a hitter — it’s about keeping the soul of the clubhouse, the identity of a young, ambitious team ready to fight for honor.
In the context of Mariners facing financial pressure—a proposal that was “too much” for them to afford could force them to let go of a “golden piece”—Polanco’s decision was also humane: he was willing to wait for his opportunity, wait for trust, rather than just chasing after the dollar.
Jorge Polanco’s affirmation of loyalty to Mariners holds profound significance for both the team and the fans. For Mariners, he is not only a stable and versatile player in multiple positions, but also a symbol of perseverance and resilience, motivating his teammates to overcome difficulties and maintain the crucial depth of the lineup for the 2026 campaign.
For fans, Polanco is not only an outstanding player but also a role model of loyalty and dedication: he was willing to sacrifice financial gain to stay where he calls home, preserving the soul and identity of Mariners, sowing hope for a new season full of ambition and belief.
It remains unclear what salary Polanco and the Mariners will agree upon. It could be a compromise: enough to make him feel valued – enough to keep the team within budget. But if all goes well, 2026 could mark a return to stability, and the Mariners – with Polanco – will enter the new season with greater faith and ambition than ever before.
For a man who has suffered, fallen, and been doubted – this declaration of loyalty is more than just a contract. It’s a statement: “Seattle is my home.” And in doing so, Polanco isn’t just keeping a piece of gold – he’s keeping the soul of the Mariners.
Leave a Reply