In an announcement that shocked Seattle Mariners fans, Jorge Polanco – the experienced baseman and quiet heart of the defense – officially opted out of his contract and will become a free agent. However, what excited the entire baseball community the most was not the news of his departure, but the sweet letter of gratitude that Polanco sent to fans just hours after the announcement.
“Seattle has given me more than I expected. I came here with nothing but a girl and faith, but I leave with a heart full of memories, friendship, and gratitude,” Polanco wrote in his personal Instagram post, along with a photo of himself leaving T-Mobile Park amid the noise of fake possibilities.
Polanco’s contract included an automatic option to exercise after the 2025 season, which he opted to exercise. The Mariners did not reach an agreement to extend the contract, according to MLB.com, despite talks in October. Polanco’s departure marks a quiet but emotional end to a key program for the Mariners.
Head coach Scott Servais told reporters: “Jorge was a great teammate. He didn’t say much, but every time he stepped on the field, you felt his dedication and pride. We honor his decision.”
Mariners fans were quick to express their feelings. Hundreds of comments flooded social media: “Thank you for everything you’ve brought, Polanco!”; “You will always be part of the Seattle family.”
Many fans recall unforgettable moments of resolution – like the cool double play in a win over the Astros in July, or the image of him smiling and kissing while on the wave in the rain in Seattle’s far distance.
Polanco, 32, was a mainstay for the Minnesota Twins before the Mariners traded him in early 2024. In the 2025 season, he played 118 games, posted a .263 AVG, .334 OBP, and 17 HR, and made a series of high-level plays at shortstop that helped the Mariners maintain a top-three finish in the AL West.
“I know I’m not perfect,” Polanco continued. “But every time I wear a Mariners jersey, I feel like I’m fighting for this city. I’ll never forget the feeling of hearing the cheers at the end of the last inning.”
Sources told The Seattle Times that Polanco has received interest from at least three teams – including the Giants and Red Sox – but he has yet to make a final decision. “This is a time for me to spend time with my family and reflect on my actions,” he said.
Leaving Seattle temporarily, but the image of Polanco with her skirt up and a gentle smile will forever be a beautiful memory in the hearts of fans. Wherever he goes, the Mariners will still be the starting point of a memorable program – a place where a quiet player left his mark not with titles, but with heart and dedication.
And in the final moment of resolution, when Polanco turned to look at the stands, he said only one short sentence but everyone was quiet:
“Once a Marine… always a Marine.”
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