Mariners Could Lose $35M Favorite to Red Sox, Blue Jays

The Seattle Mariners’ offseason still feels unsettled, even after they locked up slugger Josh Naylor with a new deal. Naylor’s return keeps a key piece of their offensive core in place, but now the focus shifts to other pressing roster questions—especially whether they can bring back free agent Jorge Polanco.

With Eugenio Suárez leaving, Polanco’s future looms even larger. Seattle has to balance the value of keeping productive veterans against the reality of their budget limits.

Josh Naylor’s Return: A Solid Step, But More Work Ahead

Naylor played a huge role for the Mariners last year, helping them get heartbreakingly close to their first World Series appearance. Bringing him back shows Seattle isn’t backing down from its championship ambitions in 2025.

But keeping a team in contention takes more than one big bat. It’s about adding depth, keeping production steady, and staying flexible with the lineup.

The Impact of Losing Eugenio Suárez

With Suárez now a free agent, Seattle loses a steady veteran at third base. That makes it even more important to find versatile hitters who can help out without blowing up the payroll.

This is where Jorge Polanco becomes a real talking point.

Jorge Polanco: The Mariners’ Best Fit?

Polanco’s game makes him an attractive fit for Seattle. At 32, he still offers steady offense, can play multiple positions, and brings some leadership to the clubhouse.

He could take on the designated hitter role to keep him fresh, but he’s also able to cover second base when needed. That kind of flexibility isn’t easy to find.

Polanco’s Market Value

The Athletic’s Tim Britton projects Polanco will land a two-year, $35 million deal. That’s a hefty price for Seattle, especially if they’re not willing to move on from other high-salary players.

Versatile hitters with Polanco’s track record tend to get paid in today’s free agent market, and he’s no exception.

Can Seattle Afford Polanco?

Polanco might be a great fit on the field, but the financial side is tricky. The front office and ownership need to decide if his expected contract fits their long-term payroll plans.

To bring him back, Seattle might have to clear space by moving one or more big contracts. That could shake up the team’s chemistry, and it’s not a move to take lightly.

Competition in the Free Agent Market

Seattle isn’t the only team eyeing Polanco. The Athletic’s Ken Rosenthal and Will Sammon report that the Boston Red Sox and Toronto Blue Jays are also interested.

Both teams might see Polanco as a strong replacement if they end up losing stars like Alex Bregman or Bo Bichette. It could get competitive fast.

Possible Outcomes for the Mariners

Seattle’s chances with Polanco may depend on how quickly other free agents sign and set the market. If the Mariners act fast, maybe they land him before the bidding heats up.

But if they wait, deeper-pocketed teams could jump in, and Seattle might have to look elsewhere for help.

Strategic Moves Seattle Could Consider

Some possible routes forward:

• Salary Reduction: Trade or release higher-cost players to open up payroll space.
• Short-Term Incentive Contracts: Offer Polanco a lower base salary with performance bonuses attached.
• Targeting Similar Skill Sets: Go after other versatile hitters who might come cheaper.

Final Thoughts: Navigating a Tricky Offseason

The Mariners’ offseason feels like a tightrope walk between ambition and reality. Josh Naylor’s re-signing stands out as a real win.

The choice about Jorge Polanco could shape their season. His bat, versatility, and experience would help Seattle, but keeping him might force the front office to get creative with the budget.

The free agent market is heating up. Mariners fans should brace for quick moves—and maybe a few tough decisions—from the Seattle brass.

Whether Polanco stays in the Pacific Northwest or heads to Boston, Toronto, or somewhere else, the Mariners’ next step will show just how far they’re willing to go for a shot at the postseason.

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Here is the source article for this story: Mariners Could Lose $35M Fan Favorite To Red Sox Or Blue Jays, Per Insider