The Seattle Mariners entered the 2025–26 offseason hoping to retain key contributors from their memorable playoff run, but the situation around infielder Jorge Polanco has suddenly taken a dramatic and unwelcome turn. According to The Sporting News, Polanco’s contract landscape has changed significantly, with a potential $48 million free-agent contract looming — a development that could spell trouble for Seattle’s plans to keep him in teal. ([turn1search2])
Polanco was one of Seattle’s most impactful players during the Mariners’ thrilling 2025 season. The switch-hitting infielder posted solid numbers with 26 home runs and 78 RBIs, helping the Mariners reach the American League Championship Series for the first time in franchise history. His timely hitting and veteran presence made him a fan favorite in Seattle.
However, Polanco declined his $6 million player option for 2026 and entered free agency, signaling his intent to test the open market. While the Mariners hoped to bring him back — with reports showing mutual interest between Polanco and Seattle — the latest contract update suggests other teams might enter a bidding war. ([turn1search29])
A Lucrative Contract on the Horizon
The “shocking” part of the update revolves around the $48 million valuation that Polanco’s market could reach. While Seattle might have envisioned a more team-friendly renewal, competing offers from rival clubs could push his price tag much higher than what the Mariners are willing or able to spend. Such a deal would stretch Seattle’s payroll flexibility amid other offseason targets. ([turn1search2])
For a franchise that already re-signed star first baseman Josh Naylor to a five-year, $92.5 million contract, committing nearly $50 million to Polanco could conflict with budget priorities — especially with limited payroll space projected this winter. Seattle has roughly $30 – $35 million in available payroll after accounting for options and arbitration commitments. Allocating most of that to Polanco’s contract might prevent the club from addressing other important needs, such as bullpen help or additional offensive pieces.
Why This Matters for the Mariners
Polanco’s departure would create a significant void in Seattle’s infield and lineup. The 32-year-old switch-hitter wasn’t just a contributor at the plate; he also provided veteran experience and clutch at-bats during Seattle’s deep postseason run. His presence helped protect core hitters like Julio Rodríguez and Cal Raleigh by giving opposing pitchers one more dangerous bat to navigate.
For a team that hasn’t won a World Series in its long history, maintaining roster continuity after a breakout season can be crucial to sustaining success. Losing a key player like Polanco — especially if he lands a $48 million deal elsewhere — would represent a setback in that effort.
Balancing Budget and Roster Needs
Seattle’s front office, led by president of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto, has been deliberate in shaping the roster. Bringing Naylor back was a major early offseason priority, and securing him early might have helped position the team to pursue Polanco as well.
However, Mariners fans have already seen other key contributors depart or face uncertain futures. Eugenio Suárez and Caleb Ferguson are free agents, and the team must decide where to allocate its remaining funds:
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Josh Naylor – Already re-signed to a long-term deal.
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Jorge Polanco – Free agent with a rising contract projection.
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Luis Urías – Another infield free agent.
Balancing these moves while keeping competitive momentum is one of Seattle’s biggest offseason challenges.
Reports have surfaced that rival teams — including the Boston Red Sox — could be eyeing Polanco as a complementary bat in free agency. This kind of interest could fuel a bidding war that Seattle might struggle to win unless it commits significant resources.
In such a scenario, Polanco’s value as a switch-hitting run producer and postseason performer becomes attractive across the league, not just for Seattle. This kind of cross-market demand could elevate his contract beyond what most expected, hence the “shocking” $48 million figure cited by sources.
Mariners fans have been vocal about their desire to keep Polanco in Seattle, given his contributions and chemistry within the clubhouse. Online discussions from the 2025 season showed widespread appreciation for his clutch performances — including a game-winning RBI single that helped send Seattle to the ALCS.
Front office insiders have reiterated that re-signing Polanco remains a priority, but they also acknowledge the realities of the market. The club is reportedly prepared to explore other options if Polanco’s price becomes prohibitive.
With free agency in full swing and the Winter Meetings underway, Seattle’s approach to Polanco’s situation will be one of the major storylines to follow. Will the Mariners push to match or exceed rival offers? Or will they pivot toward other infield solutions?
One thing is clear: losing Jorge Polanco after a breakout season — especially to a hefty contract offer — would be a significant storyline for the Mariners’ offseason and could test the organization’s resolve to build a sustained contender. As the market continues to take shape, all eyes will be on where Polanco lands and what that means for Seattle’s 2026 aspirations.
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