Jorge Polanco gives Mariners fans hope about controversial signing

Jorge Polanco’s 2024 season didn’t go the way anyone hoped. The switch-hitting infielder, acquired by the Seattle Mariners during the 2023-24 offseason, struggled to stay on the field due to injuries, limiting his ability to make an impact.

When he did play, he showed flashes of his usual talent, but consistency was hard to come by. Now, with a fresh start in 2025 (and hopefully a full year of health), there’s plenty of reason for optimism surrounding Polanco’s potential to be a key contributor for the Mariners.

Jorge Polanco taking a cautious approach during spring training, which should give Mariner fans hope

Last season, Polanco battled multiple injuries that severely hampered his performance. He was never quite at full strength, and it showed in his numbers. His power dipped, his timing at the plate was off, and his defensive range suffered. The end results: a .651 OPS and just 1.3 WAR.

It was a frustrating year for a player who, when healthy, has been one of the more reliable offensive infielders in baseball. In an effort to put those struggles behind him, Polanco underwent left knee surgery in the offseason to address his lingering issues. Now, with rehab behind him, the focus is on getting him back to his usual self.

The Mariners understand how valuable Polanco can be. That is why they are taking a cautious approach during spring training, as Ryan Divish of the Seattle Times reported on Monday. Rather than rush him into game action, the team is easing him back to ensure he’s 100 percent ready for Opening Day.

“It’s feeling really good,” Polanco said of his knee after DH'ing in his Cactus League debut on Monday, per Divish. “I don’t have an exact schedule. I think I’m going to play my first few games at DH. And then after that I will get into the field.”

It’s a smart move. Seattle is thinking long-term, and they need Polanco at his best for the full season, not just the first few weeks. When healthy, he provides much-needed versatility and offensive production, two things the Mariners will rely on as they push for a playoff spot.

A healthy and productive Polanco could be a game-changer for Seattle. The Mariners have a solid roster, but they need consistent offensive contributions from their infield to compete in a tough American League West. Polanco brings a combination of power, on-base ability, and experience to the lineup. If he can return to his pre-injury form, he gives the team another dangerous bat to pair with stars like Julio Rodríguez and Cal Raleigh.

Seattle came close to making the playoffs last year but ultimately fell short. The difference between a good team and a playoff team often comes down to health and depth, and Polanco’s ability to stay on the field will play a major role in determining how far the Mariners can go. If he bounces back to his career averages, his impact could be one of the key factors in Seattle finally breaking through and making a deep postseason run.